Absorbent article having a stable skin care composition

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates to an absorbent article having a stable skin care composition disposed on its skin-contacting surface. The skin care composition is readily transferable to the skin via normal contact, wearer motion, and/or body heat. Importantly, the skin care composition contains at least one skin care ingredient imparting visible skin benefits to the skin upon transfer to the skin and at least one rheological agent for stabilizing the composition such that agglomeration, stratification and/or settling of the composition are minimized. The present invention also relates to a process for making the absorbent articles having a stable skin care composition disposed thereon.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This is a divisional of application Ser. No. 09/563,638, filed onMay 2, 2000 in the name of Gatto et al., which is a continuation-in-partof application Ser. No. 09/316,691, filed on May 21, 1999 in the name ofGatto et al.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Many types of disposable absorbent products, such as diapers,training pants, adult incontinence devices, sanitary napkins, pantyliners, and the like, are available that have a high capacity forabsorbing urine and other body exudates. Disposal products of this typegenerally comprise some sort of liquid-pervious topsheet material, anabsorbent core, and a liquid-impervious backsheet material. Althoughthese types of absorbent articles may be highly efficient for theabsorption of liquids, it is generally known that skin under theabsorbent article is more susceptible to skin disorders, includingdiaper rash or diaper dermatitis, erythema (i.e., redness), heat rash,abrasion, pressure marks and skin barrier loss. Diaper rash is a commonform of irritation and inflammation of those parts of an infant's bodynormally covered by a diaper. It is generally accepted that diaper rashor diaper dermatitis is a condition which begins as a contact irritantdermatitis. The commonly known factors linked to diaper dermatitisinclude ammonia, bacteria, products of bacterial action, urine pH,candida albicans, and moisture. This irritation and/or inflammationresult from extended contact of the skin with urine, feces, or both.When absorbent articles are worn to catch and hold the body exudates,the absorbent articles not only hold the skin of the wearer in directcontact with irritants in the body exudates, but also hold the skin inan occluded condition. Often, the skin is subjected to such a conditionfor extended periods of time, that is, until the soiled article ischanged. As the skin under the absorbent article becomes overhydrated orirritated by such prolonged and repeated exposures, the skin conditionis compromised, i.e., the skin is injured and/or becomes moresusceptible to skin disorders or damages. While this condition iscertainly more common in infants, it is not limited to infants. Similarconditions occur in, for example, incontinent or bed-ridden adults.

[0003] Common approaches to the improvement of skin conditions in thediapered areas often focus on reducing skin hydration, such as frequentchanging of diapers, using moisture absorbing powders, usingsuperabsorbent materials, and improving air flow in diapers, and thelike.

[0004] Another common approach is to apply a topical cream, ointment,lotion or paste to the affected areas. This procedure usually providesome degree of physical barrier protection to the skin against directcontact with fecal or urine irritants. However, the barrier approach maybe occlusive in itself, thus not very effective once a full blown caseof diaper dermatitis has developed. There is a tendency to slather on athick layer of the diaper rash cream or ointment, which is occlusive,messy, wasteful and aesthetically displeasing. Moreover, the excesscream/ointment may transfer to the absorbent article or other clothing,such as underwear, leading to reduced absorbency or stained clothing.This procedure is also time-consuming and often forgotten. Furthermore,the cream/ointment typically comes in a reusable container and ishand-applied to the skin. The composition often has a thick, greasy andtacky consistency in order to remain on the infant's skin, the residualcomposition is not easily removed from the opening of the container orthe hands of the care-giver, and the possibility of cross contaminationbetween one infant to another is increased.

[0005] An alternative approach attempts to simultaneously addressmultiple causes or important cofactors by using a multi-ingredient skincare composition. The composition may include barrier substances, skinconditioning agents or emollients, and may even include various skincare ingredients.

[0006] The skin care ingredients may exist as insoluble particlessuspended in the substantially oleagineous compositions due to theirlimited solubility in the oleagineous substances. Furthermore, thesesolid particles generally have densities much higher than theoleagineous matrix that they are dispersed in. For example, commoncommercial diaper rash creams or ointments comprise zinc oxide particlesdispersed in an organic matrix. Zinc oxide has a density of about 5.7g/cm³ while the density of organics is generally about 0.9 g/cm³. Thislarge difference in densities often leads to separation and processingproblems.

[0007] A good suspension of the skin care ingredients in the lotioncomposition is highly desirable. As used herein, a “good” suspensionmeans the particulate substances are substantially uniformly dispersedin the medium, and the dispersion is stable, i.e., no visiblestratification, agglomeration or settling with the passage of time.Uniform distribution of the ingredients minimizes variation in productquality and assures that every application of the product to the skindelivers a sufficient amount of ingredients to achieve efficacy. Thereis no need to over-apply the product in order to achieve the desiredbenefits; consequently, there is less waste. Therefore, a goodsuspension provides the most efficient delivery of these skin careingredients to the skin and maximizes the skin benefits. Moreover, thereis no need to incorporate an extra amount of the costly ingredients toensure efficacy; thus, an effective composition can be made at lowercost. Additionally, a good suspension also reduces the lumpiness of thelotion and provides a smooth skin feel when applied.

[0008] Generally, a suspension of particulates in a Newtonian fluidfollows the Stokes law, which states that the rate of separation orsettling is proportional to the density difference between the suspendedparticles and the suspending medium, to the square of the particle sizeof the suspended particles, and is inversely proportional to theviscosity of the medium. Agglomeration and gravitational settling areoften observed when particulate materials are suspended in a Newtonianfluid, causing problems in storage, transportation and processing ofthese compositions. Where a batch process is used, the agglomeration andsettling can occur in a holding tank. Moreover, as the composition flowsthrough processing equipment, the agglomerates, formed either in theholding tank or along the process, tend to get hung up in variouselements having small diameters (such as pipes, valves, slots) along theprocessing line. This “bridging” problem often causes clogged orfices,openings, slots and/or narrow pipes, and can severely reduce or evenstop the flow of the composition through the processing equipment.

[0009] Agitation or turbulent flow can redisperse the suspendedparticles and avoid agglomeration and settling problems. It is knownthat the flow of a liquid through a pipe or like elements may be laminaror turbulent, and the transition from a laminar flow to a turbulent flowdepends on the properties of the fluid, its velocity and the diameter ofthe pipe. However, agitation, velocity and pipe diameter are processingparameters that are constrained to a limited range for a given piece ofequipment. Variations of these parameters within the equipment-limitingrange often fail to solve the problem.

[0010] A variety of Theological agents, such as thickeners, thixotropicagents and dispersing agents, can be added to such a composition toalter the Theological properties of the composition. These Theologicalagents serve to improve the stability of the suspensions and to maintainthe viscosity at a desired level for a wide range process conditions andend-use situations.

[0011] Creams or ointments containing particles of zinc oxide,anti-microbials, or protease or enzyme inhibitors are known. Thesecompositions have traditionally been prepared as oil-in-water orwater-in-oil emulsions. These emulsions are not very effective inimproving the condition and/or appearance of the diapered skin,particularly when the composition is delivered via a vehicle such as anabsorbent article. The absorbent core element may draw the aqueous phaseaway from the surface of the article thereby reducing the skin benefitsprovided by the composition. Additionally, the oil phase, being pulledalong, may interfere with the absorbency of the core. Anhydrouscompositions are also known, which typically include volatile liquidcarriers, such as silicone or solvents. The volatile materials can causeirritation or burning to the skin and these effects are especially acutewhen skin is already injured or compromised due to chronic exposure tobody exudates. Moreover, the vapors from the volatile materials canbecome entrapped between the skin and the absorbent article worn closeto the skin, further exacerbating the irritation or burning effects.Exemplary creams or ointments are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,556,560issued Dec. 3, 1985 to Buckingham; U.S. Pat. No. 5,091,193 issued Feb.25, 1992 to Enjolras et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 5,110,593 issued May 5, 1992to Benford; U.S. Pat. No. 5,362,488 issued Nov. 8, 1994 to Sibley etal.; and U.S. Pat. No. 5,618,522 issued Apr. 8, 1997 to Kaleta et al.

[0012] Products containing the FDA monographed skin care ingredients arecommercially available, such as A and D® Ointment, Vaseline® PetroleumJelly, Desitin® Diaper Rash Ointment and Daily Care ointment, Gold Bond®Medicated Baby Powder, Aquaphor® Healing Ointment, Baby Magic® BabyLotion, Johnson's Ultra Sensitive Baby Cream. These commercial productshave a major disadvantage that they are creams or ointments, i.e., theyare flowable at room temperature such that they can not be immobilizedon the surface of an absorbent article and interfere with the absorbencyof the article.

[0013] It is also known that solid or semi-solid compositions can beprovided by using either solidifiable carriers or hardeners (e.g.,petrolatum, waxes). For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,194,261 issued Mar. 16,1993 to Picherri. The Picherri reference discloses a semi-solid whichfunctions as a thick, adhesive and barrier layer over the skin. Theointment has a thick and sticky consistency. An additional barrier layeris applied over the ointment. The major disadvantage of Pichierrireference is stickiness and the occlusiveness of the ointment and thebarrier layer. Moreover, it does not contain the skin care ingredientsof the present invention, nor the Theological agent to suspend the skincare ingredients and to prevent settling. U.S. Pat. No. 4,911,932 issuedMar. 27, 1990 to Clum et al. The Clum reference teaches compositionscontaining specific imidazole derivatives and zinc oxide. The Clumreference does not disclose automatic transfer (i.e., without manualapplication) of the composition to the skin, nor a delivery vehicle forthe composition, nor how to successfully dispose the composition andimmobilize it on the skin-contacting surface of the delivery vehicle.

[0014] Articles treated or impregnated with skin care compositions arealso known. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 3,896,807 issued Jul. 29, 1975 toBuchalter discloses an article impregnated with a solid oil phase ofcream formulation which forms a cream upon addition of moisture thereto.A major disadvantage of the article disclosed by the reference is thattransfer of a beneficial substance from the absorbent substrate to skinis delayed and is only realized when body fluids are released.Additionally, the reference composition does not contain skin careingredients for skin care benefits nor Theological agents to suspendthem and to prevent them from settling. U.S. Pat. No. 5,525,346 issuedJun. 11, 1996 to Hartung et al. discloses an absorbent article havingoil-in-water emulsions comprising a non-ionic emulsifier, a dimethicone,sodium citrate/citric acid buffer system, aloe vera, preservatives andwater. The major disadvantage of the reference that the aqueous phasemay be drawn away from the surface by the absorbent element of thearticle, resulting in reduced effectiveness of the emulsions for skinbenefits and interference with the absorbency of the article. U.S. Pat.No. 5,643,588 issued Jul. 1, 1997 and U.S. Pat. No. 5,635,191 issuedJun. 3, 1997, both to Roe et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,607,760 issued Mar. 4,1997, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,609,587 issued Mar. 11, 1997, both to Roe,disclose disposable absorbent articles having a lotion compositiondisposed on the topsheet; the lotion composition comprises an emollientand an immobilizing agent. The major disadvantage of the references isthat the compositions do not contain skin care ingredients of thepresent invention nor Theological agents to suspend them and to preventsettling. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/041,509, filed Mar. 12,1998 by McOsker et al., U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/041,232,filed Mar. 12, 1998 by Rourke et al. and U.S. patent application Ser.No. 09/041,266, filed Mar. 12, 1998 by Roe et al., disclose skin careingredients that are incorporated into an absorbent article directly orvia an delivery vehicle, wherein the skin care ingredients are eitherneat or in a composition. The major disadvantage of the references isthat the compositions contain no rheological agent to stabilize the skincare composition and are unsuitable for the processing/convertingoperation.

[0015] There remains a need for an improved skin care composition whichcomprises skin care ingredients specifically beneficial to diaperedskin, and has a desirable Theological profile over a temperature rangefrom processing temperature to room temperature. Specifically, thecomposition is a stable and processable suspension at the processingtemperature and it becomes solid or semi-solid when cooled. Moreover,the composition becomes a solid or semi-solid when cooled andimmobilized on a substrate surface, yet it is readily transferable toskin upon contact with body heat, normal wear motion and/or friction.

[0016] It is desirable to modify the viscosity and the elastic modulusof a skin care composition with rheological agents such that the skincare ingredients remain suspended in the composition with insubstantialagglomeration, stratification and/or settling during processing,transportation and storage.

[0017] It is also desirable that the composition becomes a solid orsemi-solid when cooled, and that the composition is readily transferableto the skin it contacts.

[0018] Additionally, it is desirable that the composition may beefficiently and esthetically applied to the skin via a delivery vehiclesuch as an absorbent article.

[0019] It is further desirable to provide a process for making anabsorbent article having a stable skin care composition on askin-contacting surface of the absorbent article.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0020] The present invention relates to an absorbent article having astable skin care composition disposed on at least a portion of itsskin-contacting surface. The skin care composition is readilytransferable to the skin via normal contact, wearer motion, and/or bodyheat. The skin care composition contains at least one skin careingredient imparting skin benefits to the skin upon transfer to the skinand at least one theological agent for stabilizing the composition suchthat agglomeration, stratification and/or settling are minimized.

[0021] It has been found that the theological properties of thecomposition can be modified with suitable rheological agents to providea substantially stable suspension at the processing temperature suchthat it can be applied to a skin-contacting surface of an absorbentarticle in a continuous or a batch process. Suitable compositionstypically have an elastic modulus of at least about 5 dynes/cm²(measured at a strain rate of 0.2%, an oscillation frequency of 10rad/sec and a temperature of 77° C.). When cooled, the compositionbecomes a solid or semi-solid such that it is substantially non-flowableand remains “locked-in” on the skin-contacting surface of the absorbentarticle, yet it is readily transferable to a wearer's skin via contact,normal wearer's motion, and body heat.

[0022] The present invention also relates to a process for making theabsorbent articles having a substantially stable skin care compositiondisposed thereon. The rheological agent modifies the viscosity of thecomposition and stabilizes the composition. The substantially stablecomposition can be readily transported through pipes, slots, or otherelements of a processing equipment without the suspended particulatessettling out or building up in the equipment. The composition can remainsubstantially stable even in the stationary state, e.g., while in theholding tank or in storage. Furthermore, the composition can be easilyapplied to a surface of a substrate without the particulates plugging upthe application element of the processing equipment. Additionally, thestable lotion composition can be applied to a substrate surface in acontinuous or batch process to deliver a fairly constant concentrationof skin care ingredients onto the substrate surface and produce productsof consistent quality throughout the run.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023]FIG. 1 is an absorbent article in the form of a diaper accordingto the present invention.

[0024]FIG. 2 is a schematic representation illustrating a preferredprocess for applying the lotion composition of the present invention todiaper topsheet and/or cuffs.

[0025]FIG. 3 is a schematic representation illustrating an alternativeprocess for applying the lotion composition of the present invention todiaper topsheet and/or cuffs.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0026] I. Definition

[0027] As used herein, the term “comprising” means that the variouscomponents, ingredients, or steps can be conjointly employed inpracticing the present invention. Accordingly, the term “comprising”encompasses the more restrictive terms “consisting of” and “consistingessentially of”.

[0028] As used herein, the term “skin care ingredient” means a substanceor a mixture of substances, when applied to a subject's skin, eitheralone or incorporated into a skin care composition, provides skinbenefits, directly or indirectly, such as actual or perceived changes inappearance, cleanliness and attractiveness.

[0029] As used herein, the term “effective amount” of the skin careingredient or composition means an amount large enough to significantlyor positively bring about the desired effect or to modify the conditionto be treated such that the skin appears cleaner, more attractive orbetter overall in appearance. The effective amount varies with thespecific ingredient or composition used, the preventative orprophylactic effect desired, the type of condition or disorder to betreated, the age and physical condition of the individual being treated,the severity of the condition to be treated, the intensity and durationof the treatment, and like factors.

[0030] As used herein, the terms “dermatologically acceptable” or “safe”means the amount of a skin care composition or the components therein islow enough that it produces no undue (i.e., at a reasonable benefit torisk ratio) side effects, such as toxicity, irritation, or allergicresponse, in a general population.

[0031] As used herein, the term “activation” of a Theological agentmeans the Theological agent undergoes some chemical or physical changesto form a rheological structure which effectuates the changes inTheological properties of the composition.

[0032] As used herein, the term “effective amount of Theological agent”means an amount of the Theological agent(s) sufficient to bring aboutthe desired Theological properties of the composition such that thecomposition is stable and processable.

[0033] As used herein, the term “stable composition” or “stablesuspension” means the composition or suspension shows no visiblestratification, phase separation or settling for at least about 20minutes under stationary condition at or above its melt temperature.

[0034] As used herein, the term “substantially anhydrous” means the skincare composition or the carrier typically contains 10% or less freewater, preferably 5% or less free water, more preferably 1% or less freewater, and most preferably 0.5% or less free water.

[0035] As used herein, the term “free water” means the water that isadded in making the composition of the present invention. The term“bound water” means the water found naturally occurring in certainingredient/component and before it is mixed with other components tomake the composition of the present invention. A person of ordinaryskill in the art would recognize that once the components are mixed in acomposition, water can no longer be distinguished by its origin.

[0036] As used herein, the term “semisolid” means that the compositionhas a rheology typical of pseudoplastic or plastic liquids. When noshear is applied, the compositions can have the appearance of asemi-solid but can be made to flow as the shear rate is increased.Without intending to be bound by theory, it is believed that while thecomposition contains primarily solid components, it also includes someliquid components.

[0037] As used herein, the term “skin-contacting surface” or“wearer-contacting surface” of an absorbent article is one or moresurfaces of any article components that may contact the wearer's skin orbody at some time while the article is worn. Skin or body contactingsurfaces include, but are not limited to, portions of the topsheet, thebacksheet, secondary layers underlying the topsheet or the absorbentcore, leg cuffs, waist regions, side panels, liners, and the like.

[0038] Other terms are defined herein where initially discussed.

[0039] All percentages, ratios and proportions used herein are definedby weight unless otherwise specified.

[0040] II. Skin Care Compositions

[0041] The skin care compositions are directed to maintain and/orimprove the skin appearance and/or condition of the areas under theabsorbent article or other conditions susceptible to diaper dermatitis.It is preferred that the skin care composition should provide aprotective, non-occlusive function (e.g., a relatively liquid imperviousbut vapor pervious barrier) to avoid skin overhydration and skinexposure to materials contained in body exudates; an abrasion minimizingfunction to reduce skin irritation in the areas where the absorbentarticle is in contact with the wearer's skin; or contains ingredientsthat deliver, either directly or indirectly, skin care benefits. Forexample, the direct benefits may be directed towards redness reductionor anti-inflammatory action. The indirect benefits may be directedtowards removal or reduction of skin irritants in urine or feces, orreduction in overhydration of the skin. It is also preferred that theskin care composition contains emollients or other skin care ingredientsthat protect or improve the skin condition against chaffing,overhydration or itchiness. Furthermore, the skin care compositionpreferably has a smooth, silky, non-grainy skin feel to minimizeabrasion of sensitive or compromised skin having chronic conditions suchas chaffing, dryness, or rashes.

[0042] The stable skin care composition of the present inventioncomprises a substantially anhydrous, oil-based carrier comprising anemollient and, optionally, an immobilizing agent, at least one skin careingredient, and at least one Theological agent. The skin careingredients of the present invention may be insoluble or partiallysoluble solids in the substantially anhydrous, oil-based carrier. It isto be understood that oil-soluble skin care ingredients, such asVitamins A, D, E and K, and the like, are also within the scope of thepresent invention. The skin care ingredients may be incorporated intothe composition, either directly or as a predispersion, with agitation.

[0043] A skin care composition of the present invention has thefollowing characteristics: first, the composition should be a stablesuspension in its melt form in order to be consistently applied to asubstrate surface, such as the topsheet of an absorbent article; such astable liquid composition is substantially free from excessively largeagglomerates (e.g., greater than about 1000 microns), resulting inminimal bridging and separation/settling effects, and an enhanced smoothskin feel; second, the composition should be solid or semi-solid at roomtemperature (i.e., 20° C.) so that there is little “migration” on thesubstrate surface and the adverse effect to the absorbency of thearticle is minimized; third, the composition is readily transferable tothe skin by contact, normal wear motions and/or body heat; and fourth,the composition is preferably plastic or fluidy at skin temperature(i.e., 34° C.-36° C.) to facilitate the transfer to the skin.

[0044] The skin care compositions of the present invention aresubstantially anhydrous. The anhydrous nature of the composition avoidsoverhydration of the already susceptible skin that has been chronicallyexposed to a high relative humidity micro-environment. Furthermore, theanhydrous nature of the composition avoids the wicking effect of thehighly absorbent diaper core, which may preferentially draw thecomposition towards the core, interfering with the absorbency of thecore and keeping the composition away from the topsheet surface and thewearer's skin.

[0045] The compositions suitable for incorporating skin care ingredientsand rheological agents therein to practice the present invention aredescribed in U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 08/926,532 and08/926,533, each filed on Sep. 10, 1997; U.S. Pat. No. 5,607,760 issuedMar. 4, 1997; U.S. Pat. No. 5,609,587 issued Mar. 11, 1997; U.S. Pat.No. 5,635,191 issued Jun. 3, 1997; and U.S. Pat. No. 5,643,588 issuedJul. 1, 1997, the disclosures of each of which are hereby incorporatedby reference.

[0046] One aspect of the present invention is to use theological agentsfor suspending the skin care ingredients and maintaining a stablesuspension. The carrier without the theological agents exhibits typicalNewtonian fluid characteristics, that is, the dispersed particles, uponstanding, frequently agglomerate and separate from the carrier. Thisdrawback can lead to settling and bridging effects during processing andfailure to apply the skin care composition to a substrate surfaceconsistently. The rheology of the composition in its melt phase may bemodified by an effective amount of the theological agent(s) such that itbehaves like a plastic or pseudoplastic fluid. The resultant compositionis a stable solution or suspension having finely dispersed skin careingredients therein. The stabilized composition is substantially free ofagglomeration, stratification and/or settling; therefore, the meltcomposition can flow through processing equipment easily and beconsistently applied to a substrate surface. It is found that both theelastic modulus and the apparent viscosity of the composition arefactors affecting the processability of the composition.

[0047] Not intending to be bound by theory, it is believed that theelastic modulus relates to the stability of the composition and theapparent viscosity relates to the flowability of the composition.Specifically, the elastic modulus relates to the incomplete dissipationof the energy (such as shear or mixing energy) put into the compositionduring nixing. It is believed the residual energy stored within thecomposition helps to keep the particulates suspended and the componentsin a mixed state, i.e., the composition is stabilized. It is alsobelieved that the apparent viscosity of the composition should not be sohigh such that it may lead to integrity failure (such as tearing) of thesubstrate surface, as well as dosing instability (i.e., non-uniform ordiscontinuous application of the composition to substrate surface).

[0048] Specifically, the Theological agent preferably increases theelastic modulus of the composition to at least about 5 dyne/cm² whenmeasured at 77° C. under an oscillation frequency of 10 rad/sec and ashear strain of 0.2% (see Test Method disclosed herein). Preferably themelt composition has an elastic modulus in the range from about 5 toabout 50,000 dyne/cm², more preferably from about 10 to about 25,000dyne/cm², even more preferably from about 50 to about 10,000 dyne/cm²,and most preferably from about 100 to about 3,000 dyne/cm². The apparentviscosity of the composition containing the rheological agent should bein the range from about 1 to about 100,000 centipoise, preferably fromabout 5 to about 50,000 centipoise, and more preferably from about 10 toabout 5,000 centipoise, when measured under the same conditions.

[0049] As will be discussed hereinafter, the skin care compositionsuseful in the present invention preferably have a melting profile suchthat they are relatively immobilized and localized on thewearer-contacting surface of the article at room temperature, arereadily transferable to the skin, and yet are not completely liquidunder extreme storage conditions. Preferably, the compositions areeasily transferable to the skin by way of contact, shear, normalwearer's motions and/or body heat. Because the composition preferably issubstantially immobilized on the article's surface, a relatively lowlevel of composition is needed to impart the desired skin care benefits.In addition, special barrier or wrapping materials may be unnecessary inpackaging the treated articles useful in the present invention.

[0050] The preferred compositions are solid, or more often semi-solid atroom temperature, i.e., at 20° C. Being solid or semi-solid at roomtemperature, the preferred compositions do not have a tendency to flowand migrate to a significant degree to undesired locations of thearticle, and thus avoid significant interference with the absorbency ofthe article. This means less skin care composition is required forimparting desirable appearance, protective or conditioning benefits.Preferably, the compositions of the present invention have a zero shearviscosity at room temperature between about 1.0×10⁶ centipoise and about1.0×10⁸ centipoise. More preferably, the zero shear viscosity is betweenabout 5.0×10⁶ centipoise and about 5.0×10⁷ centipoise.

[0051] To enhance the immobility of the preferred compositions, theviscosity of the formulated compositions should be as high as necessaryto prevent substantial flow within the article to undesired location.One the other hand, too high a viscosity may inhibit transfer ofcomposition to the skin. Therefore, a balance should be achieved so theviscosities are high enough to keep the compositions localized on thesurface of the article, but not so high as to impede transfer to theskin. In addition, the compositions preferably have a final meltingpoint above skin temperature, more preferably above potential“stressful” storage conditions that can be greater than 45° C. (e.g.,warehouse in Arizona, car trunk in Florida, etc.). Specifically,preferred compositions will have the following melt profile:Characteristic Preferred Range Most Preferred wt % liquid* at  2-60 3-40 room temp. (20° C.) wt % liquid* at 25-95 30-90 body temp. (37°C.) final melting point (° C.) ≧38 ≧45

[0052] Skin Care Ingredients

[0053] Various skin care ingredients may be incorporated into the skincare compositions provide various skin benefits, such as reduction inredness, improvement in skin appearance and/or condition, formation of abarrier or protective layer, or reduction of irritants in body wastes. Ahost of skin care ingredients can be incorporated into a carrier andapplied to the skin. These skin care ingredients include, but are notlimited to, barrier substances (petrolatum), skin conditioning agents(oil, lanolin), proton donating agents, protease and/or enzymeinhibitors, and antimicrobials. The skin care composition may alsocontain humectants (glycerine, sorbitol), vitamins, skin soothingagents, such as aloe vera, or other ingredients from herbal, botanicalor mineral sources, or multi-functional agents, such as zinc oxide.

[0054] A wide variety of topically effective ingredients can beincorporated into the stable composition of the present invention. Suchskin care ingredient provides visible benefits to the occluded skinunder an absorbent article when applied according to the presentinvention. The skin care ingredients can be uniformly dispersedthroughout the composition as insoluble particulates. Alternatively, theskin care ingredients can be solubilized in the substantially anhydrouscarrier of the present invention. The resultant composition issubstantially stable (i.e, resistant to excessively large agglomeration,stratification and/or settling), has a solid or semi-solid consistencyat room temperature that renders it readily transferable to the skin,and is suitable for topical application to the skin via a deliveryvehicle such as an absorbent article or elements thereof.

[0055] Numerous materials that have been deemed safe and effective skincare ingredients are logical materials for use herein. Such materialsinclude Category I and Category III actives as defined by the U.S. Foodand Drug Administration's (FDA) Tentative Final Monograph on SkinProtectant Drug Products for Over-the-Counter Human Use (21 C.F.R.§347). It will be recognized that several of the monographed activeslisted below are “emollients” as defined herein. Category I activespresently include: allantoin, aluminum hydroxide gel, calamine, cocoabutter, dimethicone, cod liver oil (in combination), glycerine, kaolin,petrolatum, lanolin, mineral oil, shark liver oil, white petrolatum,talc, topical starch, zinc acetate, zinc carbonate, zinc oxide, and thelike. Category III actives presently include: live yeast cellderivatives, aldioxa, aluminum acetate, microporous cellulose,cholecalciferol, colloidal oatmeal, cysteine hydrochloride,dexpanthenol, Peruvean balsam oil, protein hydrolysates, racemicmethionine, sodium bicarbonate, Vitamin A, and the like. Thesemonographed materials are known to provide multiple skin benefits, suchas skin protectant, itch prevention, irritation prevention, via variousmechanisms.

[0056] The skin care ingredients suitable for the present invention mayalso include, but are not limited to, pH control agents or protondonating agents, such as pH buffer systems, ammonium-neutralizingagents, organic acids, polymeric acids, inorganic acids, and theirsalts; anti-microbials; enzyme inhibitors; protease inhibitors;anti-coenzymes; chelating agents; and anti-bodies. Some nonlimitingexamples of proton donating agents are described in U.S. applicationSer. No. 09/041,509, by McOsker et al. filed on Mar. 12, 1998.

[0057] Protease inhibitors can be divided into two general classes: theproteinases and the peptidases. Proteinases act on specific interiorpeptide bonds of proteins and peptidases act on peptide bonds adjacentto a free amino or carboxyl group on the end of a protein and thuscleave the protein from the outside. The protease inhibitors suitablefor use in the present invention include, but are not limited to,proteinases such as serine proteases, metalloproteases, cysteineproteases, and aspartyl protease, and peptidases, such ascarboxypepidases, dipeptidases and aminopepidases. Some non-limitingexamples of such protease inhibitors are described in U.S. applicationSer. No. 09/041,232, by Rourke et al filed on Mar. 12, 1998, U.S. Pat.No. 5,091,193 issued to Enjolras et al, on Feb. 25, 1992, and U.S. Pat.No. 4,556,560 issued to Buckingham on Dec. 3, 1985, all are incorporatedby reference herein.

[0058] Enzyme inhibitors are designed to inhibit specific enzymaticactivities of various classes of proteases. Specifically useful for thepresent invention are inhibitors that interact with those proteolyticand lipolytic enzymes commonly present in feces, such as lipases,esterases, diesterases, ureases, amylases, elastases, nucleases, Theenzyme inhibitors suitable for use in the present invention include, butare not limited to, chelating agents which bind to metal cofactors ofspecific enzymes, antibodies raised for specific enzymes, enzymeinhibitors for various enzymes or coenzymes, preferably of theproteolytic type, such as trypsin, chymotrypsin, aminopeptidase andelastase, serine, cysteine, lipases, bile salts (acting as coenzymesthat enhance the activities of lipases), amylases, and/or ureases. Otherenzyme inhibitors known to effectively reduce or interfere with enzymeactivities are also contemplated to be within the scope of the presentinvention. Some non-limiting examples of such enzyme inhibitors aredescribed in U.S. application Ser. No. 09/041,266, by Roe et al. andU.S. application Ser. No. 09/041,196, by Underiner et al., both filed onMar. 12, 1998, U.S. Pat. No. 5,376,655 issued to Imaki et al. on Dec.27, 1994, U.S. Pat. No. 5,091,193 issued to Enjoiras et al. on Feb. 25,1992, U.S. Pat. No. 3,935,862 issued to Kraskin on Feb. 3, 1976, U.S.Pat. No. 5,409,903 issued to Polak et al. on Apr. 25, 1995, U.S. Pat.No. 4,556,560 issued to Buckingham on Dec. 3, 1985, Patent ApplicationEP 97/120,699 and EP 97/120,700 both by Polumbo et al. and filed on Nov.26, 1997, all are incorporated by reference herein.

[0059] The skin care ingredients in the present invention shouldpreferably include at least one of the following: zinc oxide, talc,starch, allantoin, hexamidine and its salts and derivatives, hexamidinediisethionate, and its salts, triacetin, phytic acid, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), and 4-(2-aminoethyl)-benzenesulfonylfluoridehydrochloride, chitosan, and mixtures thereof.

[0060] Generally, a safe and effective amount of a skin care ingredientis incorporated into the composition. The skin care compositionssuitable for the present invention may contain skin care ingredients ina concentration of from about 0.001% to about 70% by weight, preferablyfrom about 0.01% to about 45%, more preferably from about 0.1% to about25%, and most preferably from about 0.1% to about 10%. The skin careingredients may be used singly or as a mixture of skin care ingredientsin a “cocktail”. Because of the variety of skin care ingredients thatmay be used in the present invention, the effective concentration ofeach skin care ingredient should be separately determined, as known tothose skilled in the art.

[0061] Where the ingredients are insoluble in the composition, theaverage particle size of the ingredients plays an important role insuspending the particles in the composition without substantialagglomeration, stratification and/or settling. The particles should besubstantially free of excessively large agglomerates, i.e., there isnegligible amount of particles larger than 1000 microns. The averageparticle size of the skin care ingredients should preferably be lessthan about 1000 microns, more preferably less than about 100 microns,and most preferably less than about 50 microns.

[0062] It is generally known that solid particles in neat form tend toform clumps or agglomerates, bound by static charges, interactionsbetween functional groups, etc. It is often necessary to break up theclumps in order to disperse the particles, to reduce the settlingeffect, and to deliver skin benefits effectively. The break-up anddispersion can be accomplished by grinding or milling, by incorporationinto a composition with agitation, by predispersing in a dispersantmixture, by predissolving in a carrier or by other methods known topersons skilled in the art.

[0063] The predispersant mixture preferably comprises a dispersant fluidand optionally, a wetting agent. The wetting agent is typically asurfactant having a hydrophilic end, which interacts with the functionalgroups on the surface of the ingredient particles, and a lipophilic end,which is compatible with the oil-based carrier of the presentcomposition. Without intending to be bound by theory, it is believedthat the wetting agent, along with external forces applied (such asshear, agitation), facilitates the break-up of the clumps of the skincare ingredients and the mixing or dispersion of the particulateingredients in the composition. It is also believed that the wettingagent, being a hydrophilic-lipophilic, surfactant-type material, bridgesthe interfaces between the particulate ingredients and the substantiallyanhydrous carrier. It is also believed that the dispersant fluid canserve as a diluent and/or a wetting agent for predispersing theparticles. Additionally, the dispersant fluid preferably is misciblewith the substantially anhydrous, oleaginous composition of the presentinvention. Nonlimiting examples of the dispersant fluid include mineraloil, dimethicone and other silicones, esters, preferably thecondensation products of C₁-C₂₂ alcohols with C₁-C₂₂ acids. Thepredispersion preferably has a high solid or particle content in therange of 50% to 99% by weight solids, more preferably from 60% to 90% byweight solids, and most preferably from 70% to 80% by weight solids.Various grinding and/or milling techniques known in the art aresometimes used in the predispersing process to break down the particlesize and disperse the particles.

[0064] In a preferred embodiment, the ingredient is zinc oxidedispersed, as insoluble particles, in the oleaginous, substantiallyanhydrous carrier of the present invention. More preferably, the zincoxide particles are prepared as a predispersion. The skin carecomposition comprises from about 1 wt % to about 70 wt % of the zincoxide predispersion, preferably from about 3 wt % to about 50 wt %, morepreferably from about 5 wt % to about 30 wt %. The predispersion haspreferably from about 90 wt % to about 50 wt % zinc oxide, from about 1wt % to about 50 wt % dispersant fluid and from about 0.1 wt % to about10 wt % wetting agent. A preferred embodiment comprises about 75 wt %zinc oxide particles dispersed in about 22 wt % of a dispersant fluidsuch as those described above and about 3 wt % of a polyglyceyl esterwetting agent. Suitable zinc oxide predispersion is available from KoboProducts, Inc., S. Plainfield, N.J. The zinc oxide particles of thepresent invention typically consist of agglomerates of primaryparticles. The particle size of the agglomerates ranges from about 0.1to about 300 microns and the average agglomerate size is about 1.0microns. The average particle size of the primary particles is about0.12 microns. Typically the agglomerate comprises about 5 to about 8primary particles.

[0065] Alternatively, a hydrophobic modification can be applied to thezinc oxide particles to “wet” the surface of the particles. In thisprocess, surfactants are actually attached to the surface of the zincoxide particles under high temperature or pressure. The modified or“wetted” zinc oxide particles with the lipophilic ends of thesurfactants extending from their surfaces, become at least partiallymiscible in the oil-based carrier of the present compositions.

[0066] Rheological Agents

[0067] The Theological agents should provide sufficient modification tothe Theological properties of the compositions to be able to maintainrelatively stable suspensions of skin care active particles therein.Because the present compositions are complex mixtures of components, themodifications of the Theological properties operate under complexinteractions and mechanisms. It is found that the stability andprocessability of a composition relate to the elastic modulus andapparent viscosity of the composition in the melt form.

[0068] It is found that the elastic modulus of the composition in themelt (measured at the melt processing temperature of about 77° C.)correlates with the stability and processability of the composition. Asubstantially stable and processable composition in the melt should havean elastic modulus of at least about 5 dynes/cm², as measured accordingto the Test Method disclosed herein. The preferred elastic modulus ofsuch a composition is in the range of about 5 to about 50,000 dynes/cm²,preferably from about 10 to about 25,000 dynes/cm², more preferably fromabout 50 to about 10,000 dynes/Cm², and most preferably from about 10 toabout 3,000 dynes/cm², as measured according to the Test Methoddisclosed herein.

[0069] The apparent viscosity of the composition is characterized bymeasurements at 0.1 rad/sec at two temperatures including the processingtemperature and the “stressful” storage temperature (or about 45° C.).The apparent viscosity of the melt composition is preferably from about1 centipoise to 100,000 centipoise, more preferably from about 5centipoise to about 50,000 centipoise, and even more preferably fromabout 10 centipoise to about 5,000 centipoise.

[0070] The unmodified (i.e., in the absence of added Theological agents)melt composition exhibits substantially Newtonian fluid characteristics,which are known to result in agglomeration, stratification and/orsettling of the suspended particles. Consequently, bridging and cloggingof the processing equipment may occur. According to the presentinvention, an effective amount of one or more Theological agents areadded to the composition to change the Theological properties of themelt composition to a plastic or pseudoplastic fluid, which is generallystable and processable in standard equipment. The term “stable”, as usedherein, means the composition (having the skin care ingredientsdispersed/suspended in the carrier) shows no visible stratification orsignificant phase separation for at least about 20 minutes, preferablyfor at least about 4 hours, and more preferably at least about 8 hours,under stationary condition at or above melt temperature.

[0071] The Theological agents can be insoluble or partially solubleparticles in the oil-based, substantially anhydrous carrier of thepresent invention. These particulate Theological agents are typically inthe form of finely divided, small particles having an average particlesize less than about 100 microns and a solubility in the composition ofless than 10%, preferably less than 5% by weight. However, the particlesize may vary, depending on type of agent, the mechanism to providerheological effects, the activation or preparation of the theologicalagent, and other like factors. It is also recognized that thetheological agents need not be solid particles in the carrier. That is,the theological agents may be miscible or partially miscible with thecarrier. It is recognized that the theological agents may function asimmobilizing agents or hardeners as well. It is also recognized that thetheological agents may be incorporated into the composition singly or asmixtures of various theological agents.

[0072] The preparation and/or activation of the theological agents mayinvolve, but is not limited to, the following steps: reduction inagglomerates by milling, grinding, agitation or other methods known inthe art; and activation by methods known in the art, such steps beingdependent upon the type of rheological agent used.

[0073] Some rheological agents may also function as hardeners orimmobilizing agents to provide a solid or semi-solid composition at roomtemperature (i.e., about 20° C.). That is, theological agents may beadded to the composition such that the composition is hardened and/orimmobilized sufficiently on the substrate surface, while notsubstantially interfering its transferability to the skin that comesinto contact with the composition.

[0074] The theological agents comprises from about 0.1% to about 25% byweight of the total composition, preferably from about 0.25% to about10% by weight, and more preferably from about 0.5% to about 5% by weightof the total composition.

[0075] Type A Rheological Agents

[0076] A skin care composition modified by this type of Theologicalagents typically exhibits a substantially “flat” Theological profilewith respect to temperature. Specifically, the apparent viscosity of thecomposition does not change substantially over the temperature rangefrom about the processing temperature to room temperature. Animmobilizing agent may be added to produce a solid or semi-solidcomposition at room temperature.

[0077] A preferred Theological agent for use herein is fumed silica,either surface-treated or untreated. The untreated fumed silica isavailable commercially under the trade name CAB-O-SIL M-5 and HS-5, byCabot Corporation, Tuscola, Ill. More preferred for use herein issurface-treated fumed silica. Even more preferred is a filmed silicaselected from the group consisting of polyalkylsiloxane treated filmedsilica, trialkylsilanized filmed silica, dialkylsilanized filmed silica,and mixtures thereof. Most preferred is a fumed silica selected from thegroup consisting of polydimethylsiloxane treated fumed silica,trimethylsilanized fumed silica, dimethyldisilanized fumed silica, andmixtures thereof.

[0078] The fumed silica and treated filmed silica generally exist asagglomerates in the composition with a volume weighted average particlesize of from about 0.001 micron to about 100 microns, preferably fromabout 0.005 micron to about 50 microns, and more preferably from about0.01 microns to about 10 microns. The agglomerated configuration is themost efficient for interparticle interactions, which form the networkstructure that thickens and stabilizes the suspension.

[0079] The fumed silicas typically have active hydroxyl groups, and itmay be desirable to treat these fumed silicas such that thecharacteristics of the hydroxyl groups are altered. A useful method oftreatment is to coat the fumed silicas with a nonpolar organic compoundsuch as polyalkylsiloxanes, preferably a polydimethylsiloxane, to renderthe hydroxyl groups less active. A polydimethylsiloxane treated fumedsilica useful herein is available commercially under the trade nameCAB-O-SIL TS-720, by Cabot Corporation, Tuscola, IL. Another usefulmethod of treatment is to chemically react the hydroxyl groups of thefumed silica with a silanizing agent, e.g., dimethyldichlorosilane orhexamethyldisilizane. The chemically treated fumed silicas have the freehydroxyl groups replaced with an oxygen-silicon bond of the silanizingagent. A trimethylsilanized fumed silica useful herein is availablecommercially under the trade name CAB-O-SIL TS-530, and adimethylsilanized fumed silica useful herein is available commerciallyunder the trade name CAB-O-SIL TS-610, both by Cabot Corporation,Tuscola, Ill.

[0080] Also useful herein are organoclays, such as bentonites andhectorites that preferably have been treated (i.e., coated) with variousorganic compounds to render the clays less polar. These organoclays aretypically made from a smectic clay platelet having a fatty chain organiccompound bonded to its faces, and leaving the edges free to formhydrogen bonds. The fatty chains provide dispersibility in thesubstantially anhydrous, oil-based composition, while the edge-to-edgehydrogen bonding of the platelets provides suspension stability.Nonlimiting examples include quaternium-18 hectorites, stearalkoniumhectorites, quaternium-18 bentonites, quaternium-18 benzalkoniumbentonites, stearalkonium bentonites, and their mixtures with at leastone member selected from the group consisting of with mineral oil,propylene carbonate, isopropyl palmitate, cyclomethicone, caster oil,lanolin, propylparaben, and C12-C15 alkyl benzoate. These organoclays ormixtures are available from Rheox, Inc., Hightstown, N.J., under thegeneral trade names of BENTONE and BENTONE GEL. More preferred for useherein are BENTONE 38 (a quaternium-18 hectorite), BENTONE 27 (astearalkonium hectorite), and BENTONE 34 (a quaternium-18 bentonite).

[0081] Metal fatty ester soaps are also useful herein. Specificallyuseful herein are soaps made from the combination of at least one metalion selected from the group consisting of aluminum, magnesium, zinc andlithium, and at least one fatty acid ester having a chain length of 10to 28 carbon atoms, preferably of 12 to 22 carbon atoms, such asstearates, behenates, laurates and palmitates. More preferred for useherein are aluminum/magnesium hydroxide stearates, which are hydrophobicplatelets formed from the complexation between stearic acid andaluminum/magnesium hydroxide in alternate layers. The platelet structureswells in the oil, thereby changes the Theological characteristics ofthe composition. Specifically, the viscosity of the composition isfairly constant over a broad temperature range. This allows for enhancedstability of the suspension over the temperature range of the presentinvention. The aluminum/magnesium hydroxide stearate is available fromGiulini Corporation, Bound Brook, N.J., under the general name ofGILUGEL.

[0082] Also useful herein are calcium silicates and treated calciumsilicates. Common forms of calcium silicates include CaSiO₃,CaSiO₄(OH)₂, CaSiO₅(OH)₄. The calcium silicates can be treated with awide variety of nonpolar organic compounds to render the materials morehydrophobic and less reactive. Useful calcium silicates that arecommercially available include the following: HUBERSORB (Huber Corp.,Harve de Grace, Md.), and MICRO-CEL (Celite Corp., Denver, Colo.). Othersilicates such as magnesium silicate, or magnesium/aluminum silicate arealso useful herein.

[0083] Other nonlimiting examples also useful herein are rheologicalagents derived from natural sources, such as cholesterol andhydrogenated lecithin, and anionic surfactants such as DEA(diethanolamide) Oleth-3 phosphate.

[0084] Type B Rheological Agents

[0085] A skin care composition modified by this type of rheologicalagents typically exhibit a substantially temperature-dependentTheological profile. Specifically, the apparent viscosity of thecomposition increases as the temperature decreases from the processingtemperature to room temperature. That is, Type B Theological agentfunctions like an immobilizing agent. Inclusion of an additionalimmobilizing agent to produce a solid or semi-solid composition at roomtemperature is optional when Type B Theological agent is used.

[0086] Useful herein are various organic derivatives of castor oil, suchas THIXCIN R, THIXATROL ST, and the like. The principal constituent ofthese castor oil derivative is glyceryl tris-12-hydroxystearate. Variousinorganic derivatives of castor oil are also useful herein, such asTHIXCIN GR, THIXATROL GST, THIXSEAL 1084, and the like. All these castoroil derivatives or mixtures thereof are available from Rheox, Inc.,Hightstown, N.J.

[0087] Also useful herein are polymeric Theological agents. Nonlimitingexamples are polymethacrylate polymers, polymethacrylate and styrenecopolymers, which can optionally be crosslinked a common crosslinkingagent, polyethylene, polyethylene and acrylic acid or vinyl acetatecopolymers, polyisobutylene, poly-α-olefins, bi or tri-componentcopolymers of styrene and hydrogenated ethylene, propylene, butylene,and/or, Nylon 66 and hydrophobic cellulose derivatives.

[0088] Also useful herein are nonionic surfactants. Nonlimiting examplesinclude polyethylene oxide ethers derived from C₈-C₂₂ alcohols,preferably ceteth-10 (polyoxyethylene 10 cetyl ether), steareth-21(polyoxyethylene stearyl ether) and mixtures thereof, ethoxylated orpropoxylated alcohols or alkyl phenols, having preferably C₈-C₂₂ alkylchains and preferably from about 6 to about 25 ethylene oxide orpropylene oxide groups; mono- and di-fatty acid esters of ethyleneglycol; fatty acid monoglyceride; sorbitan; mono- and di-C₈-C₂₂ fattyacids; polyoxyethylene sorbitan; and mixtures thereof.

[0089] Also useful herein are waxes such as carnauba, ozokerite,beeswax, candelilla, paraffin, ceresin, esparto, ouricuri, rezowax,isoparaffin, silicone waxes, polyethylene waxes, and other known minedand mineral waxes. Additionally microcrystalline waxes are alsoeffective rheological agents. A preferred wax is a paraffin wax such asParaffin S.P. 434 from Strahl and Pitsch Inc., West Babylon, N.Y.

[0090] Other nonlimiting examples also useful herein, without specificregard to the rheology-temperature profiles, are diethanolamides;methylethylamides; and amphoteric surfactants such as dialkylaminopropionic acid; alkyl galactomarnan, zinc stearate, sorbitansesquioleate, cetyl hydroxy ethyl cellulose and other modifiedcelluloses.

[0091] Emollients

[0092] For skin care compositions designed to provide skin appearanceand/or skin protective benefits, a useful ingredient in thesecompositions is one or more skin protectants or emollients. As usedherein, the term “emollient” means a material that protects againstwetness or irritation, softens, soothes, supples, coats, lubricates,moisturizes, protects and/or cleanses the skin; the term “protectant”means a material which protects injured or exposed skin or mucousmembrane surface from harmful or annoying stimuli. In a preferredembodiment, these emollients will have either a plastic or liquidconsistency at room temperatures, i.e., 20° C.

[0093] Representative emollients useful in the present inventioninclude, but are not limited to, emollients that are petroleum-based;sucrose ester fatty acids; polyethylene glycol and derivatives thereof,humectants; fatty acid ester type; alkyl ethoxylate type; fatty acidester ethoxylates; fatty alcohol type; polysiloxane type; propyleneglycol and derivatives thereof, glycerine and derivatives thereof,including glyceride, acetoglycerides, and ethoxylated glycerides ofC₁₂-C₂₈ fatty acids; triethylene glycol and derivatives thereof,spermaceti or other waxes; fatty acids; fatty alcohol ethers,particularly those having from 12 to 28 carbon atoms in their fattychain, such as stearic acid; propoxylated fatty alcohols; other fattyesters of polyhydroxy alcohols; lanolin and its derivatives; kaolin andits derivatives; any of the monographed skin care agents listed above;or mixtures of these emollients. Suitable petroleum-based emollientsinclude those hydrocarbons, or mixtures of hydrocarbons, having chainlengths of from 16 to 50 carbon atoms. Petroleum based hydrocarbonshaving these chain lengths include mineral oil (also known as “liquidpetrolatum”) and petrolatum (also known as “mineral wax,” “petroleumjelly” and “mineral jelly”). Mineral oil usually refers to less viscousmixtures of hydrocarbons having from 16 to 20 carbon atoms. Petrolatumusually refers to more viscous mixtures of hydrocarbons having from 16to 32 carbon atoms. Petrolatum and mineral oil are particularlypreferred emollients for compositions of the present invention.

[0094] Suitable fatty acid ester type emollients include those derivedfrom C₁₂-C₂₈ fatty acids, preferably C₁₆-C₂₂ saturated fatty acids, andshort chain (C₁-C₈, preferably C₁-C₃) monohydric alcohols.Representative examples of such esters include methyl palmitate, methylstearate, isopropyl laurate, isopropyl myristate, isopropyl palmitate,ethylhexyl palmitate and mixtures thereof. Suitable fatty acid esteremollients can also be derived from esters of longer chain fattyalcohols (C₁₂-C₂₈, preferably C₁₂-C₁₆) and shorter chain fatty acidse.g., lactic acid, such as lauryl lactate and cetyl lactate.

[0095] Suitable alkyl ethoxylate type emollients include C12-C22 fattyalcohol ethoxylates having an average degree of ethoxylation of fromabout 2 to about 30. Preferably, the fatty alcohol ethoxylate emollientis selected from the group consisting of lauryl, cetyl, and stearylethoxylates, and mixtures thereof, having an average degree ofethoxylation ranging from about 2 to about 23. Representative examplesof such alkyl ethoxylates include laureth-3 (a lauryl ethoxylate havingan average degree of ethoxylation of 3), laureth-23 (a lauryl ethoxylatehaving an average degree of ethoxylation of 23), ceteth-10 (a cetylalcohol ethoxylate having an average degree of ethoxylation of 10) andsteareth-10 (a stearyl alcohol ethoxylate having an average degree ofethoxylation of 10). When employed, these alkyl ethoxylate emollientsare typically used in combination with the petroleum-based emollients,such as petrolatum, at a weight ratio of allyl ethoxylate emollient topetroleum-based emollient of from about 1:1 to about 1:5, preferablyfrom about 1:2 to about 1:4.

[0096] Suitable fatty alcohol type emollients include C₁₂-C₂₂ fattyalcohols, preferably C₁₆-C₁₈ fatty alcohols. Representative examplesinclude cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol, and mixtures thereof. Whenemployed, these fatty alcohol emollients are typically used incombination with the petroleum-based emollients, such as petrolatum, ata weight ratio of fatty alcohol emollient to petroleum-based emollientof from about 1:1 to about 1:5, preferably from about 1:1 to about 1:2.

[0097] Other suitable types of emollients for use herein includepolysiloxane compounds. In general, suitable polysiloxane materials foruse in the present invention include those having monomeric siloxaneunits of the following structure:

[0098] wherein, R¹ and R², for each independent siloxane monomeric unitcan each independently be hydrogen or any alkyl, aryl, alkenyl, alkaryl,arakyl, cycloalkyl, halogenated hydrocarbon, or other radical. Any ofsuch radicals can be substituted or unsubstituted. R¹ and R² radicals ofany particular monomeric unit may differ from the correspondingfunctionalities of the next adjoining monomeric unit. Additionally, thepolysiloxane can be either a straight chain, a branched chain or have acyclic structure. The radicals R¹ and R² can additionally independentlybe other silaceous functionalities such as, but not limited tosiloxanes, polysiloxanes, silanes, and polysilanes. The radicals R¹ andR² may contain any of a variety of organic functionalities including,for example, alcohol, carboxylic acid, phenyl, and aminefunctionalities.

[0099] Exemplary alkyl radicals are methyl, ethyl, propyl, butyl,pentyl, hexyl, octyl, decyl, octadecyl, and the like. Exemplary alkenylradicals are vinyl, allyl, and the like. Exemplary aryl radicals arephenyl, diphenyl, naphthyl, and the like. Exemplary alkaryl radicals aretolyl, xylyl, ethylphenyl, and the like. Exemplary aryl radicals arebenzyl, α-phenylethyl, β-phenylethyl, α-phenylbutyl, and the like.Exemplary cycloalkyl radicals are cyclobutyl, cyclopentyl, cyclohexyl,and the like. Exemplary halogenated hydrocarbon radicals arechloromethyl, bromoethyl, tetrafluoroethyl, fluoroethyl, trifluoroethyl,trifluorotloyl, hexafluoroxylyl, and the like.

[0100] Viscosity of polysiloxanes usefull for the present invention mayvary as widely as the viscosity of polysiloxanes in general vary, solong as the polysiloxane is flowable or can be made to be flowable forapplication to the absorbent article. This includes, but is not limitedto, viscosity as low as 5 centistokes (at 37° C. as measured by a glassviscometer) to about 20,000,000 centistokes. Preferably thepolysiloxanes have a viscosity at 37° C. ranging from about 5 to about5,000 centistokes, more preferably from about 5 to about 2,000centistokes, most preferably from about 100 to about 1000 centistokes.High viscosity polysiloxanes which themselves are resistant to flowingcan be effectively deposited upon the absorbent articles by such methodsas, for example, emulsifying the polysiloxane in surfactant or providingthe polysiloxane in solution with the aid of a solvent, such as hexane,listed for exemplary purposes only. Particular methods for applyingpolysiloxane emollients to absorbent articles are discussed in moredetail hereinafter.

[0101] Preferred polysiloxanes compounds for use in the presentinvention are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,059,282 (Ampulski et al),issued Oct. 22, 1991, which is incorporated herein by reference.Particularly preferred polysiloxane compounds for use as emollients inthe compositions of the present invention include phenyl-functionalpolymethylsiloxane compounds (e.g., Dow Coming 556 Cosmetic-Grade Fluid:polyphenylmethylsiloxane) and cetyl or stearyl functionalizeddimethicones such as Dow 2502 and Dow 2503 polysiloxane liquids,respectively. In addition to such substitution with phenyl-functional oralkyl groups, effective substitution may be made with amino, carboxyl,hydroxyl, ether, polyether, aldehyde, ketone, amide, ester, and thiolgroups. Of these effective substituent groups, the family of groupscomprising phenyl, amino, alkyl, carboxyl, and hydroxyl groups are morepreferred than the others; and phenyl-functional groups are mostpreferred.

[0102] Suitable fatty ester type emollients also includepolyolpolyesters as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,609,587, issued to Roeon Mar. 11, 1997, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein byreference. Exemplary polyols include, but are not limited to, polyhydriccompounds such as pentaerythritol; sugars such as raffinose,maltodextrose, galactose, sucrose, glucose, xylose, fructose, maltose,lactose, mannose and erythrose; and sugar alcohols such as erythritol,xylitol, malitol, mannitol and sorbitol. Such polyols are esterifiedwith fatty acids and/or other organic radicals having at least twocarbon atoms and up to 30 carbon atoms. While it is not necessary thatall of the hydroxyl groups of the polyol be esterified, preferredpolyolpolyester emollients of the present invention have substantiallyall (e.g., at least about 85%) of the hydroxyl groups esterified.Particularly preferred are sucrose polyolpolyesters such as sucrosepolycottonate, sucrose polysoyate, and sucrose polybehenate. Mixtures ofsuch polyolpolyesters are also suitable emollients for the presentinvention.

[0103] Suitable humectants include glycerine, propylene glycol,sorbitol, trihydroxy stearin, and the like.

[0104] When present, the amount of emollient that can be included in thecomposition will depend on a variety of factors, including theparticular emollient involved, the skin benefits desired, the othercomponents in the composition and like factors. The composition willcomprise from 0 to 99.9%, by total weight, of the emollient. Preferably,the composition will comprise from about 10 to about 95%, morepreferably from about 20 to about 80%, and most preferably from about 40to about 75%, by weight, of the emollient.

[0105] Immobilizing Agent

[0106] An optional component of the skin care is an agent capable ofimmobilizing the composition in the desired location in or on thetreated article. Because some embodiments of the composition have aplastic or liquid consistency at 20° C., they tend to flow or migrate,even when subjected to modest shear. When applied to a wearer-contactingsurface or other location of an absorbent article, especially in amelted or molten state, the composition will not remain primarily in oron the treated region. Instead, the composition will tend to migrate andflow to undesired regions of the article and adversely affect theabsorbency of the article.

[0107] Specifically, if the composition migrates into the interior ofthe article, it can cause undesired effects on the absorbency of thearticle. It also means that much more composition has to be applied tothe article to get the desired skin smoothness benefits. Increasing theadd-on level of composition not only increases the cost, but alsoexacerbates the undesirable effect on the absorbency of the article'score and undesired transfer of composition during processing/convertingof the treated articles.

[0108] The immobilizing agent counteracts this tendency of thecomposition to migrate or flow by keeping the composition primarilylocalized on the surface or in the region of the article to which thecomposition is applied. This is believed to be due, in part, to the factthat the immobilizing agent raises the melting point and/or viscosity ofthe composition. Since the immobilizing agent is preferably misciblewith the carrier/emollient (or solubilized in the carrier/emollient withthe aid of an appropriate emulsifier or dispersed therein), it entrapsthe composition on the surface of the article's wearer contactingsurface or in the region to which it is applied.

[0109] In addition to being miscible with (or solubilized in) thecarrier/emollient, the immobilizing agent preferably has a meltingprofile that will provide a composition that is solid or semisolid atroom temperature. In this regard, preferred immobilizing agents willhave a melting point of at least about 35° C. This is so theimmobilizing agent itself will not have a tendency to migrate or flow.Preferred immobilizing agents will have melting points of at least about40° C. Typically, the immobilizing agent will have a melting point inthe range of from about 50° to about 150° C.

[0110] It is also advantageous to “microscopically” lock or entrap thecomponents of the composition on the wearer contacting surface or theregion of the article to which the composition is applied. This can beaccomplished by using immobilizing agents which tend to form finecrystals or have high crystallinity. Upon cooling, the immobilizingagent forms multiple seeds or nuclei, from which the crystallinestructures grow, and entrap other components. In addition, outsidecooling of the treated article via blowers, fans, cold rolls, etc. canspeed up crystallization of the immobilizing agent.

[0111] When utilized, immobilizing agents useful herein can be selectedfrom any of a number of agents, so long as the protease-inhibitingproperties of the skin care composition provide the skin benefitsdescribed herein. Preferred immobilizing agents will comprise a memberselected from the group consisting of C₁₄-C₆₀ fatty alcohols, C₁₄-C₆₀fatty acids, and C₁₄-C₆₀ fatty alcohol ethoxylates having an averagedegree of ethoxylation ranging from about 2 to about 110, and mixturesthereof. The alkyl chain of the fatty alcohols, fatty acids, or fattyacid esters is typically C₁₄ to C₆₀, preferably C₁₆ to C₅₀, and morepreferably C₂₀ to C₄₀. The alkyl chains may be linear, branched,saturated or unsaturated, with linear chains being the preferredstructure. The high melting crystalline materials are more effective asthe immobilizing agents. It is believed that the long, linear structureof these materials can speed up solidification on the treated absorbentarticle and “lock” up the composition more rapidly. The average degreeof ethoxylation is preferably from about 2 to about 40, more preferablyfrom about 5 to about 20. In one embodiment, the immobilizing agentsinclude C₁₆-C₁₈ fatty alcohols, such as cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol,behenyl alcohol, and mixtures thereof. Mixtures of cetyl alcohol andstearyl alcohol are particularly preferred. In another embodiment, theimmobilizing agents include C₁₆-C₁₈ fatty acids, most preferablyselected from the group consisting of palmitic acid, stearic acid, andmixtures thereof. Mixtures of palmitic acid and stearic acid areparticularly preferred. Still other embodiments use immobilizing agentssuch as C₁₆-C₁₈ fatty alcohol ethoxylates having an average degree ofethoxylation ranging from about 2 to about 32, preferably from about 5to about 20.

[0112] Other types of immobilizing agents that may be used hereininclude polyhydroxy fatty acid esters, polyhydroxy fatty acid amides,and mixtures thereof. Preferred esters and amides will have three ormore free hydroxy groups on the polyhydroxy moiety and are typicallynonionic in character. Because of the possible skin sensitivity of thoseusing articles to which the composition is applied, these esters andamides should also be relatively mild and non-irritating to the skin.

[0113] Suitable polyhydroxy fatty acid esters for use in the presentinvention will have the formula:

[0114] wherein R is a C₅-C₃₁ hydrocarbyl group, preferably straightchain C₇-C₁₉ alkyl or alkenyl, more preferably straight chain C₉-C₁₇alkyl or alkenyl, most preferably straight chain C₁₁-C₁₇ alkyl oralkenyl, or mixture thereof, Y is a polyhydroxyhydrocarbyl moiety havinga hydrocarbyl chain with at least 2 free hydroxyls directly connected tothe chain; and n is at least 1. Suitable Y groups can be derived frompolyols such as glycerol, pentaerytiritol; sugars such as raffinose,maltodextrose, galactose, sucrose, glucose, xylose, fructose, maltose,lactose, mannose and erythrose; sugar alcohols such as erythritol,xylitol, malitol, mannitol and sorbitol; and anhydrides of sugaralcohols such as sorbitan.

[0115] One class of suitable polyhydroxy fatty acid esters for use inthe present invention comprises certain sorbitan esters, preferably thesorbitan esters of C₁₆-C₂₂ saturated fatty acids. Because of the mannerin which they are typically manufactured, these sorbitan esters usuallycomprise mixtures of mono-, di-, tri-, etc. esters. Representativeexamples of suitable sorbitan esters include sorbitan palmitates (e.g.,SPAN 40), sorbitan stearates (e.g., SPAN 60), and sorbitan behenates,that comprise one or more of the mono-, di- and tri-ester versions ofthese sorbitan esters, e.g., sorbitan mono-, di- and tri-palmitate,sorbitan mono-, di- and tri-stearate, sorbitan mono-, di andtri-behenate, as well as mixed tallow fatty acid sorbitan mono-, di- andtri-esters. Mixtures of different sorbitan esters can also be used, suchas sorbitan palmitates with sorbitan stearates. Particularly preferredsorbitan esters are the sorbitan stearates, typically as a mixture ofmono-, di- and tri-esters plus some tetraester) such as SPAN 60, andsorbitan stearates sold under the trade name GLYCOMUL-S by Lonza, Inc.Although these sorbitan esters typically contain mixtures of mono-, di-and tri-esters, plus some tetraester, the mono- and di-esters areusually the predominant species in these mixtures.

[0116] Another class of suitable polyhydroxy fatty acid esters for usein the present invention comprises certain glyceryl monoesters,preferably glyceryl monoesters of C₁₆-C₂₂ saturated fatty acids such asglyceryl monostearate, glyceryl monopalmitate, and glycerylmonobehenate. Again, like the sorbitan esters, glyceryl monoestermixtures will typically contain some di- and triester. However, suchmixtures should contain predominantly the glyceryl monoester species tobe useful in the present invention.

[0117] Another class of suitable polyhydroxy fatty acid esters for usein the present invention comprise certain sucrose fatty acid esters,preferably the C₁₂-C₂₂ saturated fatty acid esters of sucrose. Sucrosemonoesters and diesters are particularly preferred and include sucrosemono- and di-stearate and sucrose mono- and di- laurate.

[0118] Suitable polyhydroxy fatty acid amides for use in the presentinvention will have the formula:

[0119] wherein R¹ is H, C₁ -C₄ hydrocarbyl, 2-hydroxyethyl,2-hydroxypropyl, methoxyethyl, methoxypropyl or a mixture thereof,preferably C₁-C₄ alkyl, methoxyethyl or methoxypropyl, more preferablyC₁ or C₂ alkyl or methoxypropyl, most preferably C₁ alkyl (i.e., methyl)or methoxypropyl; and R² is a C₅-C₃₁ hydrocarbyl group, preferablystraight chain C₇-C₁₉ alkyl or alkenyl, more preferably straight chainC₉-C₁₇ alkyl or alkenyl, most preferably straight chain C₁₁-C₁₇ alkyl oralkenyl, or mixture thereof, and Z is a polyhydroxyhydrocarbyl moietyhaving a linear hydrocarbyl chain with at least 3 hydroxyls directlyconnected to the chain. See U.S. Pat. No. 5,174,927 to Honsa, issuedDec. 29, 1992 (herein incorporated by reference) which discloses thesepolyhydroxy fatty acid amides, as well as their preparation.

[0120] The Z moiety preferably will be derived from a reducing sugar ina reductive amination reaction; most preferably glycityl. Suitablereducing sugars include glucose, fructose, maltose, lactose, galactose,mannose, and xylose. High dextrose corn syrup, high fructose corn syrup,and high maltose corn syrup can be utilized, as well as the individualsugars listed above. These corn syrups can yield mixtures of sugarcomponents for the Z moiety.

[0121] The Z moiety preferably will be selected from the groupconsisting of —CH₂—(CHOH)_(n)—CH₂OH, —CH(C₂OH)—[(CHOH)_(n−1)]—CH₂OH,—CH₂OH—CH₂—(CHOH)₂—(CHOR³)(CHOH)—CH₂OH, where n is an integer from 3 to5, and R³ is H or a cyclic or aliphatic monosaccharide. Most preferredare the glycityls where n is 4, particularly —CH₂—(CHOH)₄—CH₂ OH.

[0122] In the above formula, R¹ can be, for example, N-methyl, N-ethyl,N-propyl, N-isopropyl, N-butyl, N-2-hydroxyethyl, N-methoxypropyl orN-2-hydroxypropyl. R² can be selected to provide, for example,cocamides, stearamides, olearmides, lauramides, myristarmides,capricamides, palmitamides, tallowamides, etc. The Z moiety can be1-deoxyglucityl, 2-deoxyfructityl, 1-deoxymaltityl, 1-deoxylactityl,1-deoxygalactityl, 1-deoxymannityl, 1-deoxymaltotriotityl, etc.

[0123] The most preferred polyhydroxy fatty acid amides have the generalformula:

[0124] wherein R¹ is methyl or methoxypropyl; R² is a C₁₁-C₁₇straight-chain alkyl or alkenyl group. These include N-lauryl-N-methylglucamide, N-lauryl-N-methoxypropyl glucamide, N-cocoyl-N-methylglucamide, N-cocoyl-N-methoxypropyl glucamide,N-palmityl-N-methoxypropyl glucamide, N-tallowyl-N-methyl glucamide, orN-tallowyl-N-methoxypropyl glucamide.

[0125] As previously noted, some of the immobilizing agents may requirean emulsifier for solubilization in the emollient. This is particularlythe case for certain of the glucamides such as theN-alkyl-N-methoxypropyl glucamides having hydrophilic lipophilic balance(HLB) values of at least about 7. Suitable emulsifiers will typicallyinclude those having HLB values below about 7. In this regard, thesorbitan esters previously described, such as the sorbitan stearates,having HLB values of about 4.9 or less have been found useful insolubilizing these glucamide immobilizing agents in petrolatum. Othersuitable emulsifiers include steareth-2 (polyethylene glycol ethers ofstearyl alcohol that conform to the formula CH₃(CH₂)₁₇(OCH₂CH₂)_(n)OH,where n has an average value of 2), sorbitan tristearate, isosorbidelaurate, and glyceryl monostearate. The emulsifier can be included in anamount sufficient to solubilize the immobilizing agent in the emollientsuch that a substantially uniform mixture is obtained. For example, anapproximately 1:1 mixture of N-cocoyl-N-methyl glucamide and petrolatumthat will normally not melt into a single phase mixture, will melt intoa single phase mixture upon the addition of 20% of a 1:1 mixture ofSteareth-2 and sorbitan tristearate as the emulsifier.

[0126] Other types of ingredients that can be used as immobilizingagents, either alone, or in combination with the above-mentionedimmobilizing agents, include waxes such as carnauba, ozokerite, beeswax,candelilla, paraffin, ceresin, esparto, ouricuri, rezowax, isoparaffin,and other known mined and mineral waxes. The high melt point of thesematerials can help immobilize the composition on the desired surface orlocation on the article. Additionally microcrystalline waxes areeffective immobilizing agents. Microcrystalline waxes can aid in“locking” up low molecular weight hydrocarbons within the skin carecomposition. Preferably the wax is a paraffin wax. An example of aparticularly preferred alternate immobilizing agent is a paraffin waxsuch as Parrafin S.P. 434 from Strahl and Pitsch Inc., West Babylon,N.Y. Synthetic waxes such as those derived from polyethylene may also beused herein.

[0127] Depending on the rheological properties and thermal properties(especially the melting temperature) of the composition, the amount ofthe immobilizing agent may vary. When present, the composition typicallycomprises from about 5 to about 95 wt %, preferably from about 5 toabout 50 wt %, most preferably from about 10 to about 40 wt %, of theimmobilizing agent.

[0128] Optional Hydrophilic Surfactants

[0129] It is highly desirable that at least a portion of the article'stopsheet be made of a hydrophilic material to promote rapid transfer ofliquids (e.g., urine) through the topsheet. Similarly, it may bedesirable that the composition be sufficiently wettable to ensure thatliquids will transfer through the topsheet rapidly. Alternatively,hydrophobic skin care compositions may be utilized, so long as they areapplied such that the fluid handling properties of the topsheet areadequately maintained. (For example, as discussed below, nonuniformapplication of the composition to the topsheet is one means toaccomplish this goal.) This diminishes the likelihood that body exudateswill flow off the composition-treated topsheet rather than being drawnthrough the topsheet and being absorbed by the absorbent core. Where ahydrophilic composition is desired, depending upon the particularcomponents used in the composition, a hydrophilic surfactant (or amixture of hydrophilic surfactants) may, or may not, be required toimprove wettability. For example, some immobilizing agents, such asN-cocoyl-N-methoxypropyl glucarnide have HLB values of at least about 7and are sufficiently wettable without the addition of hydrophilicsurfactant. Other immobilizing agents such as the C₁₆-C₁₈ fatty alcoholshaving HLB values below about 7 may require addition of hydrophilicsurfactant to improve wettability when the composition is applied toarticle topsheets. Similarly, a hydrophobic emollient such as petrolatummay require the addition of a hydrophilic surfactant if a hydrophiliccomposition is desired. Of course, the concern around wettability is nota factor when the wearer-contacting surface under consideration is otherthan the article's topsheet or when fluid handling properties of thetopsheet are adequately maintained via other means (e.g., nonuniformapplication).

[0130] Suitable hydrophilic surfactants will preferably be miscible withthe other components of the skin care composition so as to form blendedmixtures. Because of possible skin sensitivity of those using disposableabsorbent products to which the composition is applied, thesesurfactants should also be relatively mild and non-irritating to theskin. Typically, these hydrophilic surfactants are nonionic to be notonly non-irritating to the skin, but also to avoid other undesirableeffects on any other structures within the treated article. For example,reductions in tissue laminate tensile strength, adhesive bondsufficiencies, and the like.

[0131] Suitable nonionic surfactants may be substantially nonmigratoryafter the composition is applied to the articles and will typically haveHLB values in the range of from about 4 to about 20, preferably fromabout 7 to about 20. To be nonmigratory, these nonionic surfactants willtypically have melt temperatures greater than the temperatures commonlyencountered during storage, shipping, merchandising, and use ofdisposable absorbent products, e.g., at least about 30° C. In thisregard, these nonionic surfactants will preferably have melting pointssimilar to those of the immobilizing agents previously described.

[0132] Suitable nonionic surfactants for use in compositions that willbe applied to the articles, at least in the liquid discharge region ofthe diaper, include alkylglycosides; alkylglycoside ethers as describedin U.S. Pat. No. 4,011,389, issued to Langdon, et al on Mar. 8, 1977,which is incorporated by reference; alkylpolyethoxylated esters such asPegosperse 1000MS (available from Lonza, Inc., Fair Lawn, N.J.),ethoxylated sorbitan mono-, di- and/or tri-esters of C₁₂-C₁₈ fatty acidshaving an average degree of ethoxylation of from about 2 to about 20,preferably from about 2 to about 10, such as TWEEN 60 (sorbitan estersof stearic acid having an average degree of ethoxylation of about 20)and TWEEN 61 (sorbitan esters of stearic acid having an average degreeof ethoxylation of about 4), and the condensation products of aliphaticalcohols with from about 1 to about 54 moles of ethylene oxide. Thealkyl chain of the aliphatic alcohol is typically in a straight chain(linear) configuration and contains from about 8 to about 22 carbonatoms. Particularly preferred are the condensation products of alcoholshaving an alkyl group containing from about 8 to about 22 carbon atomswith from about 2 to about 30 moles of ethylene oxide per mole ofalcohol (on average). Examples of such ethoxylated alcohols include thecondensation products of myristyl alcohol with 7 moles of ethylene oxideper mole of alcohol, the condensation products of coconut alcohol (amixture of fatty alcohols having alkyl chains varying in length from 10to 14 carbon atoms) with about 6 moles of ethylene oxide. A number ofsuitable ethoxylated alcohols are commercially available, includingTERGITOL 15-S-9 (the condensation product of C₁₁-C₁₅ linear alcoholswith 9 moles of ethylene oxide), marketed by Union Carbide Corporationof Danbury, Conn.; the NEODOL brand name surfactants marketed by ShellChemical Co. of Houston, Tex., in particular NEODOL 25-12 (condensationproduct of C₁₂-C₁₅ linear alcohols with an average of 12 moles ofethylene oxide) and NEODOL 23-6.5T (condensation product of C₁₂-C₁₃linear alcohols with an average of 6.5 moles of ethylene oxide that hasbeen distilled (topped) to remove certain impurities), and especiallythe PLURAFAC brand name surfactants marketed by BASF Corp. of Mt. Olive,N.J., in particular PLURAFAC A-38 (a condensation product of a C₁₈straight chain alcohol with 27 moles of ethylene oxide). (Certain of thehydrophilic surfactants, in particular ethoxylated alcohols such asNEODOL 25-12, can also function as alkyl ethoxylate emollients). Otherexamples of preferred ethoxylated alcohol surfactants include ICI'sclass of Brij surfactants and mixtures thereof, with Brij 72 (i.e.,Steareth-2) and Brij 76 (i.e., Steareth-10) being especially preferred.Also, mixtures of cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol ethoxylated to anaverage degree of ethoxylation of from about 2 to about 30, preferablyfrom about 10 to about 20, may also be used as the hydrophilicsurfactant.

[0133] Another type of suitable surfactant for use in the compositionincludes Aerosol OT, a dioctyl ester of sodium sulfosuccinic acidmarketed by Cytec Industries, Inc. of Morristown, N.J.

[0134] Still another type of suitable surfactant for use in thecomposition includes silicone copolymers such as General Electric SF1188 (a copolymer of a polydimethylsiloxane and a polyoxyalkylene ether)and General Electric SF 1228 (a silicone polyether copolymer). Thesesilicone surfactants can be used in combination with the other types ofhydrophilic surfactants discussed above, such as the ethoxylatedalcohols. These silicone surfactants have been found to be effective atconcentrations as low as 0.1%, more preferably from about 0.25 to about1.0%, by weight of the composition.

[0135] Where a hydrophilic composition is desired, the amount ofhydrophilic surfactant required to increase the wettability of thecomposition to a desired level will depend in part upon the HLB valueand level of immobilizing agent, if any, used, the HLB value of thesurfactant used and like factors. The composition can comprise fromabout 0.1 to about 50% of the hydrophilic surfactant when needed toincrease the wettability properties of the composition. Preferably, thecomposition comprises from about 1 to about 25%, most preferably fromabout 10 to about 20%, of the hydrophilic surfactant when needed toincrease wettability.

[0136] Other Optional Components

[0137] Compositions can comprise other components typically present inemulsions, creams, ointment, lotions, suspensions, etc. of this type.These components include water, disinfectant antibacterial actives,antiviral agents, vitamins, pharmaceutical actives, suspending agents,film formers, perfumes, deodorants, opacifiers, astringents, solvents,preservatives, and the like. In addition, stabilizers can be added toenhance the shelf life of the composition such as cellulose derivatives,proteins and lecithin. All of these materials are well known in the artas additives for such formulations and can be employed in appropriateamounts in the compositions for use herein.

[0138] If water-based skin care compositions are used, a preservativewill be needed. Suitable preservatives include propyl paraben, methylparaben, benzyl alcohol, benzalkonium, tribasic calcium phosphate, BHT,or acids such as citric, tartaric, maleic, lactic, malic, benzoic,salicylic, and the like. Suitable viscosity increasing agents includesome of the agents described as effective immobilizing agents. Suitablesolvents include propylene glycol, glycerine, cyclomethicone,polyethylene glycols, hexalene glycol, diol and multi-hydroxy basedsolvents. Nonlimiting examples of suitable vitamins include A, D₃, E, B₅and E acetate.

[0139] III. Absorbent Article

[0140] As used herein, the term “absorbent article” refers to a devicewhich absorbs and retains body exudates. The term “disposable” is usedherein to describe absorbent articles which are not intended to belaundered or otherwise restored or reused as an absorbent article aftera single use. Examples of disposable absorbent articles include femininehygiene garments such as sanitary napkins, panti-liners and tampons,diapers, incontinence briefs, diaper holders, training pants, and thelike.

[0141] Disposable absorbent articles typically comprise a topsheet(preferably liquid pervious), a backsheet (preferably liquid impervious)and an absorbent core positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet.Disposable absorbent articles and components thereof, including thetopsheet, backsheet, absorbent core, and any individual layers of thesecomponents, have a body facing surface and a garment facing surface. Asused herein, “body facing surface” means that surface of the article orcomponent which is intended to be worn toward or adjacent to the body ofthe wearer, while the “garment facing surface” is on the opposite sideand is intended to be worn toward or placed adjacent to the wearer'sclothing or undergarments when the disposable absorbent article is worn.

[0142] The following description generally discusses the absorbent core,topsheet, and backsheet materials that are useful in disposableabsorbent articles that are used in the methods of the presentinvention. It is to be understood that this general description appliesto these components of the specific absorbent articles shown in FIG. 1and further described below, in addition to those of other disposableabsorbent articles which are generally described herein.

[0143] In general, the absorbent core is capable of absorbing orretaining liquids (e.g., menses, urine, and/or other body exudates). Theabsorbent core is preferably compressible, conformable, andnon-irritating to the wearer's skin. The absorbent core may bemanufactured in a wide variety of sizes and shapes (e.g., rectangular,oval, hourglass, “T” shaped, dog bone, asymmetric, etc.). In addition tothe absorbent composites of the present invention, the absorbent coremay include any of a wide variety of liquid-absorbent materials commonlyused in absorbent articles, such as comminuted wood pulp, which isgenerally referred to as airfelt. Examples of other suitable absorbentmaterials for use in the absorbent core include creped cellulosewadding; meltblown polymers including coform; chemically stiffened,modified or cross-linked cellulosic fibers; synthetic fibers such ascrimped polyester fibers; peat moss; tissue including tissue wraps andtissue laminates; absorbent foams; absorbent sponges; superabsorbentpolymers; absorbent gelling materials; or any equivalent material orcombinations of materials, or mixtures of these.

[0144] The configuration and construction of the absorbent core may alsobe varied (e.g., the absorbent core may have varying caliper zonesand/or have a profile so as to be thicker in the center; hydrophilicgradients; gradients of the absorbent composite of the presentinvention, superabsorbent gradients; or lower average density and loweraverage basis weight zones, e.g., acquisition zones; or may comprise oneor more layers or structures). The total absorbent capacity of theabsorbent core should, however, be compatible with the design loadingand the intended use of the absorbent article. Further, the size andabsorbent capacity of the absorbent core may be varied to accommodatedifferent uses such as diapers, incontinence pads, pantiliners, regularsanitary napkins, and overnight sanitary napkins, and to accommodatewearers ranging from infants to adults.

[0145] The absorbent core can include other absorbent components thatare often used in absorbent articles, for example, a dusting layer, awicking or acquisition layer, or a secondary topsheet for increasing thewearer's comfort.

[0146] The topsheet is preferably compliant, soft feeling, andnon-irritating to the wearer's skin. Further, the topsheet is liquidpervious, permitting liquids (e.g., menses and/or urine) to readilypenetrate through its thickness. A suitable topsheet may be manufacturedfrom a wide range of materials such as woven and nonwoven materials(e.g., a nonwoven web of fibers), including apertured nonwovens;polymeric materials such as apertured formed thermoplastic films,apertured plastic films, and hydroformed thermoplastic films; porousfoams; reticulated foams; reticulated thermoplastic films; andthermoplastic scrims. Suitable woven and nonwoven materials can becomprised of natural fibers (e.g., wood or cotton fibers), syntheticfibers (e.g., polymeric fibers such as polyester, polypropylene, orpolyethylene fibers) or from a combination of natural and syntheticfibers. When the topsheet comprises a nonwoven web, the web may bemanufactured by a wide number of known techniques. For example, the webmay be spunbonded, spunlace, carded, wet-laid, melt-blown,hydroentangled, hydroformed, hydroapertured, combinations of the above,or the like. The topsheet preferably comprises skin care composition(s)as described herein.

[0147] Typically, the backsheet is impervious to liquids (e.g., mensesand/or urine), although a liquid pervious backsheet in combination witha liquid impervious liner or inner layer may also be useful herein. Thebacksheet preferably comprises a thin plastic film, although otherflexible liquid impervious materials may also be used. As used herein,the term “flexible” refers to materials which are compliant and willreadily conform to the general shape and contours of the human body. Thebacksheet prevents the exudates absorbed and contained in the absorbentcore from wetting articles which contact the absorbent article such asbedsheets, pants, pajamas and undergarments. The backsheet may thuscomprise a woven or nonwoven material, polymeric films such asthermoplastic films of polyethylene or polypropylene, or compositematerials such as a film-coated nonwoven material. A suitable backsheetis a polyethylene film having a thickness of from about 0.012 mm (0.5mil) to about 0.051 mm (2.0 mils). Exemplary polyethylene films aremanufactured by Clopay Corporation of Cincinnati, Ohio, under thedesignation P18-1401 and by Tredegar Film Products of Terre Haute, Ind.,under the designation XP-39385. The backsheet is preferably embossedand/or matte finished to provide a more clothlike appearance. The sizeof the backsheet is dictated by the size of the absorbent core and theexact absorbent article design selected. Furthermore, the backsheet maypermit vapors to escape from the absorbent article (i.e., the backsheetis breathable) while still prevent exudates from passing through thebacksheet. “Breathability” is believed to facilitate the decrease inrelative humidity in the area between the skin and the absorbentarticle.

[0148] The backsheet and the topsheet are positioned adjacent thegarment facing surface and the body facing surface, respectively, of theabsorbent core. The absorbent core is preferably joined with thetopsheet, the backsheet, or both in any manner as is known by attachmentmeans (not shown in FIG. 1) such as those well known in the art.However, embodiments of the present invention are envisioned whereinportions or the entire absorbent core are unattached to either thetopsheet, the backsheet, or both.

[0149] For example, the backsheet and/or the topsheet may be secured tothe absorbent core or to each other by a uniform continuous layer ofadhesive, a patterned layer of adhesive, or an array of separate lines,spirals, or spots of adhesive. Adhesives which have been found to besatisfactory are manufactured by H. B. Fuller Company of St. Paul,Minnesota under the designation HL-1258 or H-2031. The attachment meanswill preferably comprise an open pattern network of filaments ofadhesive as is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,573,986, issued to Minetola,et al. on Mar. 4, 1986, and which is incorporated herein by reference.An exemplary attachment means of an open pattern network of filamentscomprises several lines of adhesive filaments swirled into a spiralpattern such as illustrated by the apparatus and method shown in U.S.Patent 3,911,173 issued to Sprague, Jr. on Oct. 7, 1975; U.S. Pat. No.4,785,996 issued to Zwieker, et al. on Nov. 22, 1978; and U.S. Pat. No.4,842,666 issued to Werenicz on Jun. 27, 1989. Each of these patents areincorporated herein by reference. Alternatively, the attachment meansmay comprise heat bonds, pressure bonds, ultrasonic bonds, dynamicmechanical bonds, or any other suitable attachment means or combinationsof these attachment means as are known in the art.

[0150] A preferred disposable absorbent article in which the wearercontacting surface is treated with skin care composition(s) are diapers.As used herein, the term “diaper” refers to an absorbent articlegenerally worn by infants, and incontinent persons, that is worn aboutthe lower torso of the wearer. In other words, the term “diaper”includes infant diapers, training pants, adult incontinence devices,etc.

[0151]FIG. 1 is a plan view of the diaper 50 useful in the methods ofthe present invention in its flat-out, uncontracted state (i.e., withelastic induced contraction pulled out) with portions of the structurebeing cut-away to more clearly show the construction of the diaper 50and with the portion of the diaper 50 which faces away from the wearer(the outer surface) oriented towards the viewer. As shown in FIG. 1, thediaper 50 preferably comprises a liquid pervious topsheet 520; a liquidimpervious backsheet 530 joined with the topsheet 520; an absorbent core540 positioned between the topsheet 520 and the backsheet 530, theabsorbent core 540 having a garment facing surface 542, a body facingsurface 544, side edges 546, waist edges 548, and ears 549. The diaper50 preferably further comprises elasticized leg cuffs 550; an elasticwaist feature multiply designated as 560; and a fastening systemgenerally multiply designated as 570.

[0152] The diaper 50 is shown in FIG. 1 to have an outer surface 52, aninner surface 54 corresponding to the body facing surface which isopposed to the outer surface 52, a first waist region 56, a second waistregion 58, and a periphery 51 which is defined by the outer edges of thediaper 50 in which the longitudinal edges are designated 55 and the endedges are designated 57. (While the skilled artisan will recognize thata diaper is usually described in terms of having a pair of waist regionsand a crotch region between the waist regions, in this application, forsimplicity of terminology, the diaper 50 is described as having onlywaist regions including a portion of the diaper which would typically bedesignated as part of the crotch region). The body facing surface 54 ofthe diaper 50 comprises that portion of the diaper 50 which ispositioned adjacent to the wearer's body during use. The body facingsurface 54 generally is formed by at least a portion of the topsheet 520and other components that may be joined to the topsheet 520, such as legcuffs 550, as well as any regions to which the topsheet may not extendbut which still contact the wearer, such as the waist feature 560, sidepanels and the like. The outer surface 52 comprises that portion of thediaper 50 which is positioned away from the wearer's body (i.e., theouter surface 52 generally is formed by at least a portion of thebacksheet 530 and other components that may be joined to the backsheet530). The first waist region 56 and the second waist region 58 extend,respectively, from the end edges 57 of the periphery 51 to the lateralcenterline 53 of the diaper 50. FIG. 1 also shows the longitudinalcenterline 59.

[0153]FIG. 1 shows a preferred embodiment of the diaper 50 in which thetopsheet 520 and the backsheet 530 have length and width dimensionsgenerally larger than those of the absorbent core 540. The elasticizedleg cuffs 550 and the backsheet 530 extend beyond the edges of theabsorbent core 540 to thereby form the periphery 51 of the diaper 50.

[0154] Diapers of the present invention can have a number of well knownconfigurations, with the absorbent cores thereof being adapted to thepresent invention. Exemplary configurations are described generally inU.S. Pat. No. 3,860,003 issued to Buell on Jan. 14, 1975; U.S. Pat. No.5,151,092 issued to Buell et al. on Sep. 29, 1992; U.S. Pat. No.5,221,274 issued to Buell et al. on Jun. 22, 1993. Each of these patentsis incorporated herein by reference. Another diaper configuration towhich the present invention can be readily adapted are described inco-pending U.S. Patent Application Serial Nos. 08/203,456; filed on Feb.28, 1994 and incorporated herein by reference. The absorbent cores ofdiapers described in these patents can be adapted in light of theteachings herein to include the absorbent composite of the presentinvention as an absorbent gelling material described therein.

[0155] A topsheet 520 which is particularly suitable for use in thediaper 50, is carded and thermally bonded by means well known to thoseskilled in the fabrics art. A satisfactory topsheet for the presentinvention comprises staple length polypropylene fibers having a denierof about 2.2 As used herein, the term “staple length fibers” refers tothose fibers having a length of at least about 15.9 mm (0.625 inches).Preferably, the topsheet has a basis weight from about 14 to about 25grams per square meter. A suitable topsheet is manufactured by Veratec,Inc., a Division of International Paper Company, of Walpole, Mass. underthe designation P-8.

[0156] The topsheet 520 of diaper 50 is preferably made of a hydrophilicmaterial to promote rapid transfer of liquids (e.g., urine) through thetopsheet. If the topsheet is made of a hydrophobic material, at leastportions of the upper surface of the topsheet are treated to behydrophilic so that liquids will transfer through the topsheet morerapidly. This diminishes the likelihood that body exudates will flow offthe topsheet rather than being drawn through the topsheet and beingabsorbed by the absorbent core. The topsheet can be rendered hydrophilicby treating it with a surfactant. Suitable methods for treating thetopsheet with a surfactant include spraying the topsheet material withthe surfactant and immersing the material into the surfactant. A moredetailed discussion of such a treatment and hydrophilicity is containedin U.S. Pat. No. 4,988,344 entitled “Absorbent Articles with MultipleLayer Absorbent Layers” issued to Reising, et al on Jan. 29, 1991 andU.S. Pat. No. 4,988,345 entitled “Absorbent Articles with RapidAcquiring Absorbent Cores” issued to Reising on Jan. 29, 1991, each ofwhich is incorporated by reference herein.

[0157] Alternatively, the topsheet may be in the form of an aperturedformed film, which is preferred in feminine hygiene absorbent articles.Apertured formed films are useful because they are pervious to bodyliquids and yet non-absorbent and have a reduced tendency to allowliquids to pass back through and rewet the wearer's skin. Thus, thesurface of the formed film that is in contact with the body remains dry,thereby reducing body soiling and creating a more comfortable feel forthe wearer. Suitable formed films are described in U.S. Pat. No.3,929,135 (Thompson), issued Dec. 30, 1975; U.S. Pat. No. 4,324,246(Mullane, et al.), issued Apr. 13, 1982; U.S. Pat. No. 4,342,314 (Radel.et al.), issued Aug. 3, 1982; U.S. Pat. No. 4,463,045 (Ahr et al.),issued Jul. 31, 1984; and U.S. Pat. No. 5,006,394 (Baird), issued Apr.9, 1991. Each of these patents are incorporated herein by reference.Particularly preferred microapertured formed film topsheets aredisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,609,518 (Curro et al), issue Sep. 2, 1986and U.S. Pat. No. 4,629,643 (Curro et al), issued Dec. 16, 1986, whichare incorporated by reference. The preferred topsheet for use infeminine hygiene products is the formed film described in one or more ofthe above patents and marketed on sanitary napkins by The Procter &Gamble Company of Cincinnati, Ohio as “DRI-WEAVE®.”

[0158] The body facing surface of the formed film topsheet can behydrophilic so as to help body liquids to transfer through the topsheetfaster than if the body surface was not hydrophilic so as to diminishthe likelihood that liquid will flow off the topsheet rather thanflowing into and being absorbed by the absorbent structure. In apreferred embodiment, surfactant is incorporated into the polymericmaterials of the formed film topsheet such as is described in U.S.patent application Ser. No. 07/794,745, “Absorbent Article Having ANonwoven and Apertured Film Coversheet” filed on Nov. 19, 1991 by Aziz,et al., which is incorporated by reference. Alternatively, the bodyfacing surface of the topsheet can be made hydrophilic by treating itwith a surfactant such as is described in the above referenced U.S. Pat.No. 4,950,254, incorporated herein by reference.

[0159] In a preferred embodiment of a diaper as described herein, thebacksheet 530 has a modified hourglass shape extending beyond theabsorbent core a minimum distance of about 1.3 cm to about 6.4 cm (about0.5 to about 2.5 inch) around the entire diaper periphery.

[0160] The absorbent core 540 may take on any size or shape that iscompatible with the diaper 50. One preferred embodiment of the diaper 50has an asymmetric, modified T-shaped absorbent core 540 having ears inthe first waist region but a generally rectangular shape in the secondwaist region. Exemplary absorbent materials for use as the absorbentcore of articles useful in the present methods are described, e.g., inU.S. Pat. No. 4,610,678 entitled “High-Density Absorbent Structures”issued to Weisman et al. on Sep. 9, 1986; U.S. Pat. No. 4,673,402entitled “Absorbent Articles With Dual-Layered Cores” issued to Weismanet al. on Jun. 16, 1987; U.S. Pat. No. 4,888,231 entitled “AbsorbentCore Having A Dusting Layer” issued to Angstadt on Dec. 19, 1989; andU.S. Pat. No. 4,834,735, entitled “High Density Absorbent Members HavingLower Density and Lower Basis Weight Acquisition Zones”, issued toAlemany et al. on May 30, 1989. The absorbent core may further comprisethe dual core system containing an acquisition/distribution core ofchemically stiffened fibers positioned over an absorbent storage core asdetailed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,234,423, entitled “Absorbent Article WithElastic Waist Feature and Enhanced Absorbency” issued to Alemany et al.,on Aug. 10, 1993; and in U.S. Pat. No. 5,147,345, entitled “HighEfficiency Absorbent Articles For Incontinence Management” issued toYoung, LaVon and Taylor on Sep. 15, 1992. All of these patents areincorporated herein by reference.

[0161] In a preferred embodiment, the diaper 50 further compriseselasticized leg cuffs 550 for providing improved containment of liquidsand other body exudates; an elastic waist feature 560 that providesimproved fit and containment; and a fastening system 570 which forms aside closure which maintains the first waist region 56 and the secondwaist region 58 in an overlapping configuration such that lateraltensions are maintained around the circumference of the diaper tomaintain the diaper on the wearer. The diaper 50 may also compriseelasticized waist bands (not shown) and/or elasticized side panels (alsonot shown) in the waist regions 56 and 58 to provide an elasticallyextensible feature that provides a more comfortable and contouring fitand more effective application of the diaper 50.

[0162] The elasticized leg cuffs 550 can be constructed in a number ofdifferent configurations, including those described in U.S. Pat. No.3,860,003; U.S. Pat. No. 4,909,803, issued to Aziz et al. on Mar. 20,1990; U.S. Pat. No. 4,695,278, issued to Lawson on Sep. 22, 1987; andU.S. Pat. No. 4,795,454, issued to Dragoo on Jan. 3, 1989, each beingincorporated herein by reference. Absorbent articles having elasticizedcuffs that are treated with a composition that may be useful herein aredisclosed in co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/766,386,filed Dec. 3, 1996, and co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No.08/840,039, filed Apr. 24, 1997, both of which are incorporated byreference.

[0163] The elasticized waist feature preferably comprises an elasticizedwaistband (not shown) that may be constructed in a number of differentconfigurations including those described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,515,595issued to Kievit et al. on May 7, 1985; U.S. Pat. No. 5,026,364 issuedto Robertson on Jun. 25, 1991; and the above referenced U.S. Pat. No.5,151,092 issued to Buell et al. on Sep. 29, 1992, each of thesereferences being incorporated herein by reference.

[0164] The elasticized side panels may be constructed in a number ofconfigurations. Examples of diapers with elasticized side panelspositioned in the ears (ear flaps) of the diaper are disclosed in U.S.Pat. No. 4,857,067, issued to Wood, et al. on Aug. 15, 1989; U.S. Pat.No. 4,381,781, issued to Sciaraffa, et al. on May 3, 1983; U.S. Pat. No.4,938,753, issued to Van Gompel, et al. on Jul. 3, 1990; and U.S. Pat.No. 5,151,092, issued to Buell et al. on Sep. 29, 1992; each of whichare incorporated herein by reference.

[0165] Exemplary fastening systems 570 are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.4,846,815, issued to Scripps on Jul. 11, 1989; U.S. Pat. No. 4,894,060,issued to Nestegard on Jan. 16, 1990; U.S. Pat. No. 4,946,527, issued toBattrell on Aug. 7, 1990; U.S. Pat. No. 3,848,594, issued to Buell onNov. 19, 1974; U.S. Pat. No. B1 4,662,875, issued to Hirotsu et al. onMay 5, 1987; and U.S. Pat. No. 5,151,092, issued to Buell et al. on Sep.29, 1992; each of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0166] The diaper 50 is preferably applied to a wearer by positioningone of the waist regions of the diaper, preferably the second waistregion 58, under the wearer's back and drawing the remainder of thediaper between the wearer's legs so that the other waist region,preferably the first waist region 56, is positioned across the front ofthe wearer. The fastening system is then applied to effect a sideclosure.

[0167] Of course, it will be recognized that any absorbent articledesign may be utilized to incorporate the skin care composition(s) ofthe present invention so long as the article is capable of deliveringthe skin care composition(s) to the skin during use. The disclosureabove is merely for illustrative purposes.

[0168] The methods of the present invention may also employ trainingpants to effect delivery of the desired skin care composition. The term“training pants”, as used herein, refers to disposable garments havingfixed sides and leg openings designed for infant or adults wearers.Training pants (also referred in the art as “pull on” products) areplaced in position on the wearer by inserting the wearer's legs into theleg openings and sliding the training pant into position about thewearer's lower torso. Suitable training pants are disclosed in U.S. Pat.No. 5,246,433, issued to Hasse, et al. on Sep. 21, 1993, U.S. Pat. No.5,569,234, issued to Buell et al. on Oct. 29, 1996, U.S. Pat. No.4,940,464, issued to Van Gompel et al. on Jul. 10, 1990 and U.S. Pat.No. 5,092,861, issued to Nomura et al. on Mar. 3, 1992, the disclosureof each of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0169] Another disposable absorbent article for use in the presentmethods are incontinence articles. The term “incontinence article”refers to pads, undergarments (pads held in place by a suspension systemof same type, such as a belt, or the like), inserts for absorbentarticles, capacity boosters for absorbent articles, briefs, bed pads,and the like regardless of whether they are worn by adults or otherincontinent persons. Suitable incontinence articles are disclosed inU.S. Pat. No. 4,253,461 issued to Strickland, et al. on Mar. 3, 1981;U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,597,760 and 4,597,761 issued to Buell; theabove-mentioned U.S. Pat. No. 4,704,115; U.S. Pat. No. 4,909,802 issuedto Ahr, et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 4,964,860 issued to Gipson, et al. on Oct.23, 1990; and in U.S. Pat. No. 5,304,161 issued to Noel, et al. on Apr.19, 1994 The disclosure of each of these references is incorporatedherein.

[0170] Another disposable absorbent article for use in the presentmethods are feminine hygiene articles, such as sanitary napkins.Suitable feminine hygiene articles are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.4,556,146, issued to Swanson et al. on Dec. 3, 1985, U.S. Pat. No.B14,589,876, issued to Van Tilberg on Apr. 27, 1993, U.S. Pat. No.4,687,478, issued to Van Tilburg on Aug. 18, 1997, U.S. Pat. No.4,950,264, issued to Osborn, III on Aug. 21, 1990, U.S. Pat. No.5,009,653, issued to Osborn, III on Apr. 23, 1991, U.S. Pat. No.5,267,992, issued to Van Tilburg on Dec. 7, 1993, U.S. Pat. No.5,389,094, issued to Lavash et al. on Feb. 14, 1995, U.S. Pat. No.5,413,568, issued to Roach et al. on May 9, 1995, U.S. Pat. No.5,460,623, issued to Emenaker et al. on Oct. 24, 1995, U.S. Pat. No.5,489,283, issued Van Tilburg on Feb. 6, 1996, U.S. Pat. No. 5,569,231,issued to Emenaker et al. on Oct. 29, 1996, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,620,430,issued to Bamber on Apr. 15, 1997, the disclosure of each of which isincorporated by reference herein.

[0171] IV. Treating Articles with Skin Care Compositions

[0172] In preparing the present composition, the order and manner ofmixing the various components of the present invention is notparticularly critical. It is not necessary to mix the componentstogether at elevated temperatures. It is found that the components maybe thoroughly mixed to form a substantially uniform composition attemperatures which range from about 40° C. to about 100° C. Agitation isgenerally required. And it is found that viscous heat generated fromagitation may be sufficient to raise the temperature of the mixture orcomposition so that a substantially uniform dispersion of componentstherein can be achieved. Sometimes, external heat may be added. It ispreferred that the Theological agent be added to the carrier withagitation such that the Theological agent is mixed uniformly and/oractivated (i.e., form a Theological structure). Where predispersions areused, the particulate materials and the predispersant are pre-mixed in aseparate step before being added to the composition. However,predispersion of zinc oxide or other skin care ingredients are notrequired. These ingredients can be mixed with the carrier directly undersufficient agitation.

[0173] In preparing absorbent articles of the present invention, theskin care composition is applied such that during wear, at least someportion of the composition will transfer from the treated article to thewearer's skin. That is, skin care composition is either applied directlyto one or more wearer contacting surfaces, or is applied in alternatelocations or means such that the skin care composition is readilyavailable for transfer from one or more wearer contacting surfacesduring use without intervention by the user/caregiver. (For example,materials positioned beneath the wearer contacting surface, encapsulatedcompositions, etc.) Of course, to effectuate delivery of composition tothose body regions most susceptible to contact with feces, it will bepreferred to include the composition on the portion of the topsheet andcuffs that will contact the wearer's buttocks, genitals, intertriginousand anal regions during wear. Additionally, the composition may beapplied to other article regions for delivery to one or more of thewearer's hips, abdomen, back, waist, sides, thighs, etc. Nonlimitingexamples of suitable methods include spraying, printing (e.g.,flexographic printing), coating (e.g., contact slot coating, gravurecoating), dipping, extrusion, or combinations of these applicationtechniques, e.g. spraying the skin care composition on a rotatingsurface, such as a calender roll, then transfers the composition to thedesired portion of the article. Alternatively, the skin care compositionmay be applied to a substrate as a solid or semi-solid material via avariety methods. It is to be understood that different applicationtechniques/equipment are suited for materials with theologicalproperties (e.g., apparent viscosity, elastic modulus) in a particularlyrange. For example, extrusion is suited for skin care composition havingan apparent viscosity in the range from about 100,000 centipoise toabout 1,000,000 centipoise, or an elastic modulus in the range fromabout 5,000 dyne/cm² to about 50,000 dyne/cm², at the processingtemperature.

[0174] When applied to the article's topsheet, the manner of applyingthe composition to the article should preferably be such that thetopsheet does not become saturated with the composition, at least in theregion corresponding to the liquid discharge region of the article, ifthe composition is hydrophobic in nature. If the topsheet becomessaturated with the composition in the liquid discharge region, there isa greater potential for the composition to block the topsheet openings,reducing the ability of the topsheet to transmit liquid to theunderlying absorbent core. Also, saturation of the topsheet is notrequired to obtain the skin care benefits. Similarly, saturation ofother treated article components may not be necessary or desired totransfer sufficient composition for desired skin benefits. Particularlysuitable application methods Will apply the composition primarily to theouter surface of the topsheet of the article.

[0175] The minimum level of the composition to be applied to thearticle's wearer-contacting surface is an amount effective for providingthe appearance, protective and/or skin conditioning benefits when thecomposition is delivered pursuant to the present invention. The level ofcomposition applied will depend on various factors, including thearticle component treated, the relative amount of surface area of thewearer-contacting surface not treated with the composition, thecomposition's content and the like. In general, the composition isapplied to the article in an amount ranging from about 0.05 mg/in²(0.0078 mg/cm²) to about 100 mg/in² (15.6 mg/cm²), preferably from about0.1 mg/in² (0.016 mg/cm²) to about 50 mg/in² (7.8 mg/cm²), morepreferably from about 1 mg/in² (0.156 mg/cm²) to about 25 mg/in² (3.9mg/cm²). It is recognized that the skin care compositions are relativelyhydrophobic and to be applied to the topsheet of the article withoutcovering the entire topsheet surface. It will be recognized that higherlevels of skin care composition may be applied to other articlecomponents where fluid handling properties are not impacted (e.g.,cuffs, waist band, side panels, etc.). It will also be recognized thatfor compositions that are relatively hydrophilic, higher add-on levelsor complete coverage may be used on the topsheet without adverselyimpacting liquid handling properties to an unacceptable degree.Conversely, higher levels of a hydrophilic composition may be undesiredwhen applied to components (e.g., cuff, waist) other than the topsheet,to avoid wicking of exudates to the edges of the article which mayresult in leakage.

[0176] Because the composition is preferably substantially immobilizedon the surface of the region treated, relatively small amounts ofcomposition are needed to deliver an effective amount of the skin careingredient. It is believed that the ability to use low levels to impartthe desired skin benefits is due to the fact that the composition iscontinuously, automatically delivered as articles are worn. Asindicated, the ability to use relatively low levels of skin carecomposition, allows the article's topsheet to maintain its liquidtransfer properties in the liquid discharge region.

[0177] The skin care composition may be applied nonuniformly to thewearer contacting surface of the article. By “nonuniform” it is meantthat the amount, location, pattern of distribution, etc. of thecomposition can vary over the wearer-contacting surface, and may furthervary over specific regions of the article. For example, to maintain theliquid handling performance of the topsheet, it may be desired to applythe composition nonuniformly to the topsheet, particularly if thecomposition is hydrophobic in nature. In this regard, some portions ofthe treated surface of the article (and regions thereof) can havegreater or lesser amounts of composition, including portions of thesurface that do not have any composition on it. When the composition isrelatively hydrophobic, in one such preferred embodiment the surface ofthe topsheet will have regions where no composition is applied,particularly in areas of the topsheet that correspond to the crotchregion of the article. As used herein, the crotch region of the articleis the rectangle, defined below, that is centered longitudinally andlaterally about the article's crotch point. The “crotch point” isdetermined by placing the article on a wearer in a standing position andthen placing an extensible filament around the legs in a figure eightconfiguration. The point in the article corresponding to the point ofintersection of the filament is deemed to be the crotch point of thearticle. (It is understood that the crotch point is determined byplacing the absorbent article on a wearer in the intended manner anddetermining where the crossed filament would contact the article.) Withregard to incontinence devices (e.g., diapers, adult incontinentarticles), the length of the crotch region corresponds to 40% of theabsorbent article's total length (i.e., in the y-dimension). With regardsanitary napkins, the length of the crotch region corresponds to 80% ofthe absorbent article's total length. The width of the crotch region isequivalent to the width of the widest absorbent core component asmeasured at the crotch point. (As used herein, “absorbent core”components are those materials involved with acquiring, transporting,distributing and/or storing body liquids. As such, the term absorbentcore does not include the topsheet or backsheet of the absorbentarticle.) By way of illustration, for an incontinent article having alength of 20 in. and a core width at the crotch point of 4 in., thecrotch region is the rectangle, centered on the crotch point, having alength of 8 in. and a width of 4 in.

[0178] Surprisingly, while the topsheet or other substrates are treatednonunifornly (e.g., microscopic or macroscopic regions where nocomposition is applied), during wear of the article, the composition istransferred to the wearer even in regions of the skin corresponding tountreated regions within the topsheet or other components. The amountand uniformity of composition transferred to the skin is believed todepend on several factors, including, for example, application patternof the skin care composition, contact of the wearer's skin to thetreated article surface, friction created during wear time between thewearer's skin and the treated region, warmth generated from wearer toenhance the transfer of the composition, the composition's properties,the materials which constitute the composition, and the like.

[0179] Where the composition is applied nonuniformly, any pattern may beutilized, including, for example, application of small droplets(obtained via, e.g., spraying) discrete dots (obtained via, e.g.,gravure printing), stripes that run in the longitudinal or lateraldirection of the article (obtained via contact slot coating), spiralsthat run in the longitudinal or lateral direction, etc., patternedprints, etc. In those embodiments where the topsheet comprises discrete,untreated regions, the percent open area of the region of the topsheetthat corresponds to the crotch region of the article can vary widely.(As referred to herein, the “percent open area” of the topsheet isdetermined by (i) measuring the surface area of the topsheet thatoverlies the crotch region, (ii) measuring the total surface area of theuntreated region(s) in this portion of the topsheet and (iii) dividingthe measurement in (ii) by the measurement in (i). As used herein,“untreated” means a region of the topsheet having less than about 0.01mg/in² (0.0016 mg/cm²) of the composition. In this regard, the percentopen area may be from about 1% to about 99%, from about 5% to about 95%,from about 10% to about 90%, from about 15% to about 85%, from about 20%to about 80%, from about 25% to about 75%, from about 30% to about 70%,or from about 35% to about 65%. The percent open area required toachieve the desired composition effect and the desired liquid handlingproperties of the topsheet will be dictated largely by thecharacteristics of the composition (in particular the composition'scontents and its relative hydrophobicity/hydrophilicity properties). Oneskilled in the art will appreciate that the desired percent open areawill be readily determined through routine experimentation.

[0180] In general, with compositions that are relatively hydrophobic andare to be applied such that regions of the topsheet are not coated withthe composition, the composition is preferably applied to the articletopsheet in an amount ranging from about 0.05 mg/in² (0.0078 mg/cm²) toabout 100 mg/in² (15.6 mg/cm²), preferably from about 0.1 mg/in² (0.016mg/cm²) to about 50 mg/in² (7.8 mg/cm²), more preferably from about 1mg/in² (0.156 mg/cm²) to about 25 mg/in² (3.9 mg/cm²). It will berecognized that for compositions that are relatively hydrophilic, higheradd-on levels may be used without adversely impacting liquid handlingproperties of the topsheet to an unacceptable degree. Of course, forarticles having relatively high percent open areas in the crotch,greater add-on levels may be obtainable without adversely affectingliquid handling by the topsheet.

[0181] In one preferred embodiment of the present invention, thetopsheet of the articles utilized will comprise stripes of the skin carecomposition that run in the article's longitudinal direction. Theselongitudinal stripes (or spirals) are separated by longitudinal stripeswhere little or no skin care composition is applied to the topsheet. Inthese embodiments, each stripe of composition will typically have awidth of from about 0.1 in. to about 0.75 in., more typically from about0.1 in. to about 0.5 in., and the width of the stripes containing nocomposition will typically be from about 0.1 in. to about 1 in., moretypically from about 0.15 to about 0.5 in. These ranges are applicableto typical infant diaper designs. For larger products such as adultincontinent products, these ranges may be higher Skin care compositioncan also be applied in nonuniform patterns on other article components.In these cases, the open area is calculated by the rectangle defined bythe perimeters of the skin care composition.

[0182] The composition can be applied to the article at any point duringassembly. For example, the composition can be applied to the finisheddisposable absorbent product before it has been packaged. Thecomposition can also be applied to a given component (e.g., topsheet,cuffs, sides, waist, etc.), at the converting site or by the materialsupplier, before it is combined with the other raw materials to form afinished disposable absorbent product. Again, the composition can beapplied to other zones of the article such that the composition willmigrate to one or more wearer contacting surfaces during use.

[0183] The composition is typically applied from a melt thereof to thearticle. In a preferred embodiment, the composition fully melts at atemperature significantly above room temperature, it is usually appliedas a heated composition to the article. Typically, the composition isheated to a temperature in the range from about 35° C. to about 150° C.,preferably from 40° C. to about 100° C., prior to being applied to thearticle. The skin care ingredient may be added to the composition priorto or after heating. Special care should be taken when heat-sensitiveingredients are used, for example, protease inhibitors or enzymeinhibitors. If added prior to heating, the temperature to which thecomposition is heated is selected so as not to denature the inhibitors.Alternatively, the inhibitors may be added to the pre-heated compositionwhen it has cooled to a temperature that does not affect the inhibitorsbut is still sufficiently liquid to be applied to the article. Once themelted composition has been applied to the article, it is allowed tocool and solidify. Preferably, the application process is designed toaid in the cooling/set up of the composition.

[0184] In applying compositions to the articles, contact slot coating,spraying, gravure coating, extrusion coating methods are preferred. Onesuch method involves slot coating of the composition on the article'stopsheet, either before or after the topsheet is assembled with theother raw materials into a finished absorbent article.

[0185]FIG. 2 illustrates a preferred method involving continuous orintermittent contact slot coating of the skin care composition onto adiaper topsheet and/or leg cuffs during the converting operation.Referring to FIG. 2, conveyor belt 1 advances in the direction shown bythe arrows on turning rolls 3 and 4 and becomes returning conveyor belt2. Conveyor belt 1 carries non-lotioned diaper 5 to contact slot coatingstation 6 where the topsheet and/or cuffs patch 7 is coated with a hot,molten (e.g., 170° F. or 77° C.) skin care composition. After leavingslot coating station 6, non-lotioned diaper 5 becomes lotioned diaper 8.The amount of lotion composition transferred to patch 7 is controlledby: (1) the rate at which the molten skin care composition is appliedfrom contact slot coating station 6; and/or (2) the speed at whichconveyor belt 1 travels under slot coating station 6.

[0186]FIG. 3 illustrates an alternate preferred method involving contactslot coating of the skin care composition on the diaper topsheet and/orcuffs before the topsheet and/or cuffs are assembled with other rawmaterials into a finished product. Referring to FIG. 3, a nonwoven web21 is unwound from parent roll 22 (rotating in the direction indicatedby arrow 22 a) and advanced to the contact slot coating station 26 whereone side of the web is coated with a hot, molten (e.g., 170° F. or 77°C.) skin care composition. After leaving slot coating station 26,nonwoven web 21 becomes a lotioned web indicated by 23. Lotioned web 23is then advanced around turning roll 24 and turning roll 28, and thenwound up on lotioned parent roll 20 (rotating in the direction indicatedby arrow 20 a).

[0187] V. Test Methods

[0188] a. Elastic Modulus Measurements

[0189] The rheological properties (such as elastic modulus, viscosity)of the composition in the melt form are measured using a viscometer(available from TA Instruments of New Castle, Del. as model number CSL100) in an oscillation mode. The measurements are conducted using acone-and-plate measuring system, having a diameter of 40 mm and a gap of60 micron. The measurement commences after about 100 seconds waitingtime. And the measurements are conducted at two temperatures: 77° C. and40° C. The elastic modulus measured at 10 rad/sec frequency and 0.2%strain is used to characterize the compositions. That is, all theelastic moduli disclosed and/or claimed herein are measured at theoperating conditions given above.

[0190] b. Apparent Viscosity Measurements

[0191] The apparent viscosity is measured 77° C. and 40° C. using arotational viscometer (available from Brookfield EngineeringLaboratories, Inc. of Middleboro, Mass. as Model DV-3). The viscometeris operated at a shear rate of 10 rpm using a number 2 spindle.

[0192] c. Zero Shear Viscosity Measurements

[0193] Generally, the value for “zero shear viscosity” can be obtainedby extrapolating a viscosity versus shear rate plot to a shear rate ofzero. However, for plastic or pseudoplastic fluids which exhibit a yieldbehavior at low shear rate, the extrapolation method often does notfully and accurately describe the material. Alternatively, the “zeroshear viscosity” can be approximated by a viscosity measured at very lowshear rates. As used herein, the term “zero shear viscosity” is thevalue measured by a cone and plate viscometer (available from TAInstruments of New Castle, DE as model number CSL 100), at very lowshear rates (e.g., 1.0 sec⁻¹ or lower) and at a temperature of about 20°C.

[0194] d. Particle Size Measurements

[0195] A Focus Beam Reflectance Measurement (FBRM) Model M500 (availablefrom Lasertec, Redman, Wash.) is used. The instrument is set up andoperated according to manufacturer's instructions. The FBRM can be usedto characterize solutions and/or suspensions. The FBRM can measure thenumber of particles and the mean particle chord length of the sample anddetermines the average particle size and distribution of the particulatematerials in a liquid system.

VI. EXAMPLES

[0196] The following examples are illustrative of embodiments within thescope of the present invention. It should be understood that the presentinvention is not limited to the specific examples set forth below, asmany variations thereof are possible without departing form the spiritand scope of the invention. All amounts of the various ingredients areexpressed by weight percentages unless otherwise specified.

[0197] Each of the skin care composition examples described below isdeposited on the topsheet of an absorbent article via a contact slotcoater as disclosed herein. For example, a hot melt adhesive applicatorhead having multiple slots (Meltex EP 11, available from Nordson Corp.,Atlanta, Ga.) is suitable for use in the present invention. Thecomposition is placed into a heated tank operating at a temperature ofabout 77° C. (i.e., about 170° F.). The composition is subsequentlyapplied with a contact applicator onto the topsheet and cuffs of anarticle in a striped pattern where the stripes run in the article'slongitudinal direction. Specifically, 5 stripes are applied, each stripemeasuring about 0.25 inch in width (i.e., the substrate's lateraldirection), about 11.7 inches in the longitudinal direction of thesubstrate, and at an add-on level of about 15.5 mg/in² (2.4 mg/cm²). Thedistance between the stripes is about 0.31 inch.

Example 1

[0198] A. Preparation of Skin Care Composition

[0199] An exemplary skin care composition of the present invention hasthe composition shown in TABLE 1 below: TABLE 1 Component Weight %Petrolatum¹ 55.0 Stearyl Alcohol² 34.3 ZnO Predispersion³ 6.7 FumedSilica⁴ 4.0

[0200] The composition is prepared by first mixing the petrolatum withstearyl alcohol in the melt. The Theological agent, i.e., filmed silica,is added to the melt mixture under a propeller agitation untilsubstantially uniform and wetted. Zinc oxide predispersion is added tothe melt mixture under high shear agitation until the mixture issubstantially uniform, for example, at a temperature of about 77° C.(i.e., about 170° F.) for 30 minutes. High shear mixers such as arotor-stator, homogenizer, a Gaulin® mill or colloid mill are suitablefor the present invention. Alternatively, stearyl alcohol can be addedto the melt mixture after all the other ingredients are mixed. Inanother alternative, filmed silica can be added last, i.e., after allother ingredients are mixed, if sufficient agitation is used to keep theparticulate ingredients suspended till fumed silica is added andactivated. The resulting composition has Theological properties suitablefor use as a composition for topsheet application of an absorbentarticle. Specifically, the resulting composition is a solid orsemi-solid at room temperature and has an apparent viscosity of about100 centipoise and an elastic modulus of about 400 dynes/cm at about 77°C. and 0.1 rad/sec.

[0201] B. Preparation of a Treated Article by Contact Slot Coating

[0202] The composition is applied to a surface of an absorbent articleusing a contact slot coater according to the procedure disclosed above.The resultant absorbent article has a substantially uniform skin carecomposition disposed on at least a portion thereof.

Example 2

[0203] An exemplary skin care composition of the present invention hasthe composition shown in TABLE 2 below: TABLE 2 Component Weight %Petrolatum¹ 42.0 Stearyl Alcohol² 26.3 ZnO Predispersion³ 26.7 FumedSilica⁴ 5.0

[0204] The composition and the treated article are prepared in the samemanner as Example 1. The resulting composition has rheologicalproperties suitable for use as a composition for topsheet application ofan absorbent article. Specifically, the resulting composition is a solidor semi-solid at room temperature and has an apparent viscosity of about200 centipoise and an elastic modulus of about 2000 dynes/cm at about77° C. and 0.1 rad/sec.

Example 3

[0205] An exemplary skin care composition of the present invention hasthe composition shown in TABLE 3 below: TABLE 3 Component Weight %Petrolatum¹ 53.7 Behenyl Alcohol² 35.6 ZnO Predispersion³ 6.7Organoclay⁴ 4.0

[0206] The composition and the treated article are prepared in the samemanner as Example 1, except that behenyl alcohol and organoclay areused. The resulting composition has Theological properties suitable foruse as a composition for topsheet application of an absorbent article.Specifically, the resulting composition is a solid or semi-solid at roomtemperature and has an apparent viscosity of about 8 centipoise and anelastic modulus of about 20 dynes/cm at about 77° C. and 0.1 rad/sec.

Example 4

[0207] An exemplary skin care composition of the present invention hasthe composition shown in TABLE 4 below: TABLE 4 Component Weight %Petrolatum¹ 62.5 Behenyl Alcohol² 26.8 ZnO Predispersion³ 6.7Organoclay⁴ 4.0

[0208] The composition and the treated article are prepared in the samemanner as Example 3. The resulting composition has Theologicalproperties suitable for use as a composition for topsheet application ofan absorbent article. Specifically, the resulting composition is a solidor semi-solid at room temperature and has an apparent viscosity of about8 centipoise and an elastic modulus of about 20 dynes/cm at 77° C. and0.1 rad/sec.

Example 5

[0209] An exemplary skin care composition of the present invention hasthe composition shown in TABLE 5 below: TABLE 5 Component Weight %Petrolatum¹ 48.8 Behenyl Alcohol² 20.9 ZnO Predispersion³ 26.8Organoclay⁴ 3.5

[0210] The composition and the treated article are prepared in the samemanner as Example 3. The resulting composition has rheologicalproperties suitable for use as a composition for topsheet application ofan absorbent article. Specifically, the resulting composition is a solidor semi-solid at room temperature and has an apparent viscosity of about8 centipoise and an elastic modulus of about 20 dynes/cm at about 77° C.(i.e., about 170° F.) and 0.1 rad/sec.

Example 6

[0211] An exemplary skin care composition of the present invention hasthe composition shown in TABLE 6 below: TABLE 6 Component Weight %Petrolatum¹ 53.0 Stearyl Alcohol² 33.1 ZnO Predispersion³ 10.1 FumedSilica⁴ 3.9

[0212] The composition and the treated article are prepared in the samemanner as Example 1. The resulting composition has a solid or semi-solidconsistency at room temperature.

Example 7

[0213] Comparison with Commercial Creams or Ointments

[0214] This example compares the properties of the compositions ofExamples 1-5 described hereinabove with commercially available creams orointments. All compositions contain zinc oxide skin care ingredient.TABLE 7 Properties Viscosity Viscosity Temperature Elastic Modulus (@0.1 rad/ces) (@ 100 rad/sec) Yield Stress Melt Point Lotion [C][dynes/cm^ 2] [cps] [cps] [dynes/cm^ 2] [C] Desitin 77 8,000 700 4 20035 Ointment^(a) 40 8,000 700 10 20 Desitin Creamy^(a) 77 400 600 2 70 4540 6,000 3,000 10 60 J & J 77 3,000 7,000 20 1,200 15 Ointment^(b) 403,000 10,000 40 1,700 Balmex 77 70 100 0.9 20 25 Ointment^(c) 40 30,0004,000 10 800 Diaper Guard^(d) 77 400 80 1 30 40 40 20,000 2,000 9 800Equate Creamy^(e) 77 2,000 200 2 150 45 40 30,000 3,000 40 1,500 Example1 77 400 100 0.6 20 50 40 >5,000,000 * * * Example 2 77 2,000 200 1 8050 40 >5,000,000 * * * Example 3 77 20 8 0.2 10 50 40 >5,000,000 * * *Example 4 77 20 8 0.2 10 50 40 >5,000,000 * * * Example 5 77 40 40 0.520 55 40 >5,000,000 * * *

[0215] TABLE 7 shows that the compositions of the present invention aresubstantially non-flowable at a temperature of at least about 50° C.Importantly, this characteristic enables the compositions of the presentinvention to be substantially immobilized or “locked” on theskin-contacting surface of an absorbent article.

Example 8

[0216] Compositions 8(a) and 8(b) containing no immobilizing agent areprepared according to the procedure stated above. Composition 8(a) has89% petrolatum, 7% zinc oxide predispersion and 4% fumed silica.Composition 8(b) has 68% petrolatum, 27% zinc oxide predispersion and 5%fumed silica. The melting temperature of both compositions is at leastabout 45° C. No immobilizing agent (e.g., stearyl alcohol) is needed toprovide a solid or semi-solid consistency at room temperature.

What is claimed is:
 1. An absorbent article which defines a front waistregion, a rear waist region, and a crotch region which interconnectssaid front and rear waist regions, said absorbent article comprising: a)a vapor permeable backsheet; b) a liquid pervious topsheet which ispositioned in facing relation with said backsheet; c) an absorbent corelocated between said backsheet and said topsheet; and d) a skin carecomposition on at least a portion of a wearer-contacting surface of saidabsorbent article which comprises from about 10 to about 95 weightpercent of an emollient, from about 5 to about 95 weight percent of awax, and from about 0.1 to about 25 weight percent of a Theologicalagent selected from the group consisting of poly-α-olefins,polyethylene, castor oil derivatives, alkyl galactomannan, polyethyleneand vinyl acetate copolymers, fumed silicas, zinc stearate, cetylhydroxy ethyl cellulose and other modified celluloses, and mixturesthereof.
 2. The absorbent article of claim 1 wherein said emollient isselected from the group consisting of petrolatum, mineral oil, sucroseester fatty acids, polyethylene glycol and derivatives, fatty acidesters, alkyl ethoxylates, fatty acid ester ethoxylates, polysiloxanes,propylene glycol and derivatives, glycerin and derivatives, triethyleneglycol and derivatives, fatty acids, fatty alcohol ethers, propoxylatedfatty alcohols, fatty esters of polyhydroxy alcohols, lanolin andderivatives, kaolin and derivatives, and mixtures thereof.
 3. Theabsorbent article of claim 1 wherein said emollient is a petroleum-basedemollient.
 4. The absorbent article of claim 1 wherein said immobilizingagent is a wax selected from the group consisting of carnauba,ozokerite, beeswax, candelilla, paraffin, ceresin, esparto, ouricuri,rezowax, isoparaffin, other mined and mineral waxes, and mixturesthereof.